Steelers' Mike Tomlin Seriously Defends George Pickens Despite Evidence Of Blown Route Running

The Pittsburgh Steelers were riding high heading into their tough three games in 10-days portion of the schedule. Despite knowing they would be facing three of the best teams in the league, there was optimism, considering they had surprised many, starting 10-3. However, they lost back-to-back games against the Philadelphia Eagles, Baltimore Ravens, and Kansas City Chiefs. A lot of blame has been flying around regarding the team's performance from everyone, including players. 

Unlike other losses, these three haven't felt like they fell solely on one side of the ball. The defense, particularly the secondary, is frustrated by their communication issues. Patrick Queen and DeShon Elliott both called fellow teammates out for not doing their jobs. Quarterback Russell Wilson has been blamed for his handling of the ball at times, while his offensive line was accused of not protecting him or giving him adequate time. 

Polarizing wide receiver George Pickens has once again come under fire. This time, it was because he appeared to not run his proper route against the Chiefs, which led to an interception. Pickens missed the Eagles and Ravens games with a hamstring injury, and his presence was missing. The Steelers don't have another receiver who can do what Pickens can, but he gets criticized for giving up on routes or not blocking for his teammates, and that's what happened when Wilson threw an interception that Justin Reid grabbed. 

While Reid said Pickens' route had no impact, fans and analysts haven't felt the same. During his weekly press conference, Head Coach Mike Tomlin was asked about Pickens blowing his route during the interception and if he and the coaches are assessing his route running after that game. 

"Not at all," insisted Tomlin. "George's route running had zero to do with that interception. George was fine last weekend or last Wednesday."

It wasn't just the fans complaining about Pickens. Former NFL wide receiver Terrell Owens even called him out. The Steelers were down 13-0 and were finally driving when it appeared Pickens gave up his route. According to Owens and others, he was supposed to run a go route down the sideline, which should have drawn Reid to guard him. Instead, Reid could ignore Pickens and focus totally on Wilson. 

It isn't surprising that Tomlin defended his player. He is not known to call guys out directly during his press conferences, and with a player like Pickens, who can be so emotional, it is probably better to work to instill confidence. The Steelers need Pickens to bring his A-game to the playoffs. 

Steelers Fans Need To Adjust Their Mindset

Before the start of the 2024 season, many fans seemed to have very low expectations. However, the media members expected even less, particularly at the national level. Pittsburgh was predicted to finish at the bottom of the AFC North. 

However, after the incredible start, even with Justin Fields filling in for Wilson, fans' expectations soared. The Steelers were touted as possible Super Bowl contenders until the three recent losses. 

Insider Mark Kaboly said that fans can't keep moving the goalposts. Before Week 1, the hope was to win a playoff game again. Those expectations changed, according to Kaboly, and now fans are saying they would no longer be happy with a win over a team like the Houston Texans. He said that if this team finishes the season with 12 wins, including that first playoff win since the 2016 season, they need to consider this growth. 

Do you think Tomlin is just defending Pickens, or do you think he didn't blow his route? Click to comment below. 

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