Pittsburgh Steelers Wide receiver George Pickens was singled out by NFL legend Terrell Owens after the Steelers lost three straight games, including a lopsided loss to the Kansas City Chiefs on Christmas Day.
Returning from a three-game absence following a hamstring injury, Pickens was expected to make an impact against the defending champions.
Kansas City Chiefs safety Justin Reid (20) hits Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) during the second half, Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2024, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
But after just three receptions for 50 yards, the third-year receiver faced scrutiny for his lack of production. Among those who called him was Hall of Famer Terrell Owens.
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In response to a social media post about Cam Hayward’s postgame comments in which he said, “When 10 guys do their job and one doesn’t, we’re screwed,” Owens agreed that there was a similar problem in the offensive.
“Same thing on offense as well when #14 didn’t run his routes causing [interceptions,]”Owens said in a post on X.
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) catches Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Joshua Williams (2) during the second half, Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2024, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
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Owens appeared to be referencing a play late in the first quarter. With the Chiefs leading 13-0, veteran quarterback Russell Wilson he threw an interception in the end zone. While taking responsibility for the error, Wilson acknowledged that Pickens was supposed to take another route.
“Yeah, you know, I think it was going to go vertical. But, at the end of the day, that can’t happen. It’s on me,” Wilson said. via FOX 8. “I was trying to give Pat [Freiermuth] an opportunity. “He’s done a good job for us in the red zone and they made a good play.”
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) runs into the end zone for a touchdown against Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal (54) during the first half on Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2024 in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Matt Freed)
The Steelers have lost three games in 11 days.
“The bottom line is that the junior varsity team is not good enough. We have to recognize that,” head coach Mike Tomlin said.
