“If you’re going to be a cancer, you gotta go.” That’s how former Steelers lineman Kendall Simmons summed up his feelings about wide receiver George Pickens. Simmons didn’t mince words—there was no mention of immaturity or potential for growth. Instead, he jumped straight to calling Pickens a destructive force in the locker room. And once that label is applied, it sticks—especially in Pittsburgh, where the wide receiver legacy stretches from Lynn Swann to Antonio Brown.“If you’re going to be a cancer, you gotta go.” That’s how former Steelers lineman Kendall Simmons summed up his feelings about wide receiver George Pickens. Simmons didn’t mince words—there was no mention of immaturity or potential for growth. Instead, he jumped straight to calling Pickens a destructive force in the locker room. And once that label is applied, it sticks—especially in Pittsburgh, where the wide receiver legacy stretches from Lynn Swann to Antonio Brown.
Simmons’ anger isn’t hard to understand. In a season where Pittsburgh’s offensive line was constantly rotating and the defense had to carry a heavy load, the team’s overall performance fell apart. Amid that chaos, Pickens still managed to generate off-field drama. He picked up unnecessary penalties, showed a lack of effort on routes, and had a high-profile meltdown during a Week 13 game against the Bengals. In that game, he received two unsportsmanlike conduct penalties—one for taunting linebacker Germaine Pratt and another for mimicking a finger gun gesture toward the crowd. The result: $20,462 in NFL fines.
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Then came the viral Instagram story. Pickens, wearing a gray cap with kitten ears, was seen grinding through footwork drills—looking like a hybrid of an anime character and a determined receiver out to prove something. The video, shot by Jesus Miranda who also acted as an enthusiastic coach during the drill, felt more like a comeback montage than a workout. Despite the criticism, Pickens appeared focused, dialed in.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has gone beyond just calling plays; he’s been actively defending Pickens all season, trying to manage both the player’s talent and his reputation. Tomlin acknowledged Pickens’ potential to be a superstar but expressed concern that his off-field behavior could prevent him from reaching elite status. The unspoken question remains: how long can Tomlin continue this balancing act before it becomes more about enabling than mentoring?
Pickens hasn’t responded publicly to the criticisms—no press conferences, no social media rants. Instead, he’s been training, quietly. It’s a subtle but deliberate counter to the “cancer” label. He’s letting his effort speak instead of his words. And while that’s commendable, it hasn’t stopped speculation about his future with the team.
Trade rumors are already swirling. The Steelers are reportedly exploring receiver options, including DK Metcalf, a move that would shift the team’s dynamic significantly. Bringing in someone like Metcalf isn’t about adding depth—it’s a potential signal that Pickens’ spot is in jeopardy. With rookie Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin already in the mix, someone might get squeezed out.
Steelers General Manager Omar Khan has downplayed any trade talks, expressing confidence in the team’s current wide receiver group. But looming in the background is the financial reality: Pickens is heading into the final year of his contract, and there’s been no sign of an extension. If Metcalf demands a big payday and Pickens is also expecting a large contract, the front office may have to choose between the two. Historically, Pittsburgh hasn’t kept two top-dollar receivers.
Despite the drama, Pickens continues to produce. He racked up 1,140 receiving yards and five touchdowns last season. He remained the focal point of opposing defenses and caused trouble for defensive backs every week. For all the noise, his talent is undeniable.
The Steelers’ leadership is still saying all the right things. Tomlin wants him on the team, and Khan says they’re fortunate to have him. But in the NFL, loyalty is often just a temporary sentiment—leverage drives decisions. If Pickens’ value is peaking, the team may consider moving on before the situation becomes unmanageable again.
So the question lingers: Is George Pickens a misunderstood rising star or a looming problem waiting to explode?