The NFL has fined Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens twice for actions during the team’s Week 13 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.
“The NFL fined Steelers WR George Pickens $20,462 for two unsportsmanlike conduct violations — including his finger gun towards the stands after a 46-yard catch last week,” NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero reported on December 7.
According to the NFL’s gameday accountability page, the league issued two separate $10,231 fines. One was for a “taunting” penalty in the first quarter, and the other was for a “violent gesture” during the third quarter. The latter penalty stemmed from what the league interpreted as a finger gun celebration.
Pickens, however, defended his actions after the game, claiming an NFL official admitted to misinterpreting the gesture. He described it as a typical first-down celebration. Despite his argument, the league upheld its initial interpretation and fines, leaving the 23-year-old responsible for more than $20,000 in penalties.
Per Sporting News, these latest fines bring Pickens’ total for the 2024 season to nearly $58,000.
Popular Sports Doc Raises Concerns About Pickens’ Hamstring Injury
On December 6, the Steelers listed Pickens as “questionable” for Week 14 due to a mysterious hamstring issue. While many expect him to play against the Cleveland Browns, there are concerns about the potential for reinjury.
“Something to monitor as it looks like George Pickens suffered a hamstring injury in practice,” noted Jesse Morse, a certified sports medicine physician, on X. “Likely just a tweak, but he’s high risk for reinjury.”
Though Morse’s comments are speculative, they highlight a legitimate concern for Steelers fans. A more serious hamstring injury could sideline Pickens for multiple weeks, creating significant challenges for Pittsburgh’s offense.
The Steelers have managed to navigate the season with limited depth at wide receiver, largely thanks to Pickens’ consistent play. Without his presence and the threat he poses, the team’s offensive strategy would face major adjustments.
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Key Matchup: Myles Garrett vs. Dan Moore Jr. in Steelers-Browns Rematch
Steelers sideline reporter Craig Wolfley spotlighted a critical battle for Pittsburgh in their Week 14 matchup against the Cleveland Browns: Myles Garrett versus Dan Moore Jr.
“Last time out, Garrett had a good night,” Wolfley admitted. “Bully for him. But that is not the norm. [Moore] has more than stood the test of time in his battles with Garrett and all the other AFC North marauders.”
Moore is coming off one of his strongest performances of the season against the Bengals, a bounce-back effort after Garrett dominated him the previous week.
“It certainly doesn’t always go your way,” Wolfley noted. “An offensive lineman is always on the hot seat. Whether it’s run blocking or pass protection, you will win some and, especially with players like Garrett, they will win some. The idea is to win more than they do. And Dan Moore has done a LOT of winning this year.”
Wolfley concluded that this matchup will be a “battle of meat-eaters,” emphasizing that neutralizing Garrett is key for Pittsburgh to secure a win.
Both Moore and Pickens will be pivotal for the Steelers on Sunday. A victory would elevate Pittsburgh to 10-3 on the season, keeping their AFC North title hopes alive.
