Ex Pittsburgh Steelers QB Russell Wilson Defends Departed Star Wideout George Pickens
Ex Pittsburgh Steelers QB Russell Wilson Defends Departed Star Wideout George Pickens originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have cut ties with two of their biggest offensive tools from last season.
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Quarterback Russell Wilson was not offered a new contract after playing last season on a one-year deal, and George Pickens was traded away to the Dallas Cowboys.
Wilson's time in Pittsburgh was up and down. He posted 2,482 yards with 16 touchdowns and five interceptions across 11 starts, but posted a 6-5 record after starting his season with six straight wins.
Wilson took over for Justin Fields in the Week 7 win over the New York Jets.
Wilson's top target last year was George Pickens, whose time in Pittsburgh wasn't just up and down; it was downright contentious.
Now that they're both gone, Wilson spoke out about his feelings on Pickens and their time together in the Steel City.
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"I love George," Wilson said this week on Carmelo Anthony's '7PM in Brooklyn' podcast. "His ability to catch the football is one of a kind. Anything in his vicinity, he's [going to] catch it. On a serious note, he's misunderstood. He wants to be great, you know? I think, also, his ability, where he can take it from not just being great, to being one of the world's best, I think he has that in him."
Pickens had moments of brilliance on the field but also displayed childish tantrums.
He had to be restrained on the sidelines more than once due to altercations with fans, and he drew numerous fines throughout his tenure. The Steelers saw all this as enough to move him and let him become the Cowboys' problem.
Pickens seems happy in his new hometown, though.
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"This game is just as much a business as it is football. It's kinda like out of my control," Pickens said. "I'm glad to be here in Dallas and able to continue the winning culture that they have."
"Winning culture?" Ok, George. We'll take your word for it.
Related: Ex Seahawks WR Disrespects 'Overrated' DK Metcalf
Related: Steelers Continue Roster Changes with UDFA Cut
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on May 31, 2025, where it first appeared.
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