The Pittsburgh Steelers entered 2024 training camp with a dire need for a legitimate number two wide receiver opposite of George Pickens. The 2022 second-round pick will be due for a big-time payday in 2025 if he performs as everyone expects him to in his third season, but he has had some issues with temperament since becoming a professional football player. Unfortunately, those continued on the first day in Latrobe on Thursday after he reportedly got into it with new wide receivers coach, Zach Azzanni.
%202023%20Camp%20Final%20with%20Logos/2L9A5458-544x306.jpg "Steelers - George Pickens")
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (#14) runs with a football as the team performs drills during a 2023 training camp practice at St. Vincent College in Latrobe, PA.
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter Ray Fittipaldo joined Andrew Fillipponi and Chris Mueller on The PM Team w/Poni & Mueller to discuss the first day of 2024 training camp. The bad news that came out of the day wasn't just that Pickens had an alleged confrontation with Azzanni, but the fact that the insider thinks that Pickens might not last very long in the Steel City.
"Listen, George [Pickens] is a pretty sharp guy. He's gotta see the writing on the wall, right? I mean, they got rid of Diontae Johnson because he was a problem; and George Pickens has to know that if he doesn't turn his act around in a more appropriate manner on and off the field this season... he might be the next guy out the door," Fittipaldo said.
Those comments from Fittipaldo are troubling, especially because the Steelers have virtually no future answer at the position. Pickens seems to be a bit of a distraction, but his talent is immeasurable. That's where it becomes extremely difficult for the Steelers' organization; even more so when one realizes that the team, on paper, has one of the weakest receiving cores in the league entering 2024.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation.com (Twitter / X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (#14) makes a one-handed grab as the team warms up on the field at Acrisure Stadium prior to a 2022 preseason game in Pittsburgh, PA.
Pickens has the ability to be one of the best pass-catchers in the NFL, but it takes more than talent to be recognized as an All-Pro. Composure is critical and it appears that Pickens still hasn't found a way to take control of his emotions in certain situations. The reporting from Fittipaldo tells fans that there was an altercation, but more information is sure to come out in the coming days.
The Steelers are relying on Pickens in 2024, and this reported altercation is not a good start. There's a possibility that it's being blown out of proportion, but any argument between a player and coach, no matter who is involved, should be looked at as a legitimate problem as the calendar hasn't even hit August yet. Head Coach Mike Tomlin has a responsibility to get ahead of this before it becomes even more of a headache.
%202023%20Camp%20Final%20with%20Logos/2L9A5538-544x306.jpg "Steelers Mike Tomlin")
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter / X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin stands on the field at St. Vincent College while his team practices during 2023 training camp in Latrobe, PA.
Steelers Wide Receiving Core Without Pickens Is Not Impressive
There has been so much talk throughout the 2024 offseason regarding Pickens and him being the unquestioned top receiver on Pittsburgh's roster. He may feel as if he is irreplaceable, but the Steelers have almost never catered to a player due to his importance. The relationship between Azzanni and Pickens will absolutely be something to pay attention to moving forward.
Are you surprised that Pickens could be out of the Steel City sooner rather than later? Let us know in the comments below!
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