Hall of Fame linebacker Tedy Bruschi had strong words for Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens during ESPN’s NFL Countdown. The outspoken analyst criticized Pickens’ behavior on and off the field, suggesting his actions could hold the Steelers back during critical moments.
Pickens, in his third season, has developed a reputation for costly penalties and inconsistent focus—traits that have frustrated teammates, coaches, and fans alike.
Pickens’ struggles have been magnified this season. In Week 13 against the Cincinnati Bengals, he was flagged twice for unsportsmanlike conduct, resulting in a $20,000 fine. While the Steelers managed to win that game, such penalties jeopardized the team’s momentum and could have cost them dearly.
The issues carried over into Week 14 when Pickens was inactive against the Cleveland Browns due to a hamstring injury. Without him, the Steelers’ offense sputtered, struggling to generate points in the first half before securing a narrow victory.
Bruschi did not mince words when addressing Pickens’ behavior.
"This is a loose cannon at wide receiver. ... This can hold you back. This is a problem that I foresee." @TedyBruschi believes George Pickens' "emotionally unstable" behavior will be costly for the Steelers in critical moments. pic.twitter.com/cmwdRLMxmb
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) December 8, 2024
“This is someone who decides when they play hard. Someone that has penalties that can sometimes hurt the team based on emotions,” Bruschi said on NFL Countdown. “This is a problem that I foresee. This can hold you back in critical conditions like today where there is a lot of trash-talking going on, and you’ve got an emotionally unstable kid out there.”
Does Steelers WR George Pickens desrve harsh critism?
While Bruschi’s comments were rooted in valid concerns, his approach raised eyebrows. Referring to Pickens as a “kid” seemed dismissive and could be seen as a low blow, especially in a league where players expect to grow and develop under immense pressure.
Pickens, like any young player, faces scrutiny while trying to refine his game. Bruschi’s pointed critique may fuel Pickens to prove his critics wrong as the season progresses.
There is truth to Bruschi’s words, however. Pickens’ behavior on the field, including his penchant for penalties, has been a recurring issue throughout his career. Costly mistakes disrupt the offense’s chemistry and place unnecessary strain on the team. As the Steelers push toward the playoffs, they need Pickens to channel his emotions into productive plays rather than self-inflicted setbacks.
Pickens is no stranger to criticism, having faced it throughout his career. If there’s one thing the young receiver has shown, it’s resilience in the face of adversity. With Week 15 approaching, Pickens now has another detractor to silence.
The stage is set for him to demonstrate his immense talent and his growth as a disciplined and dependable player. For the Steelers’ sake, he must rise to the occasion and prove he can be the star they need him to be.