Mike Tomlin is keeping the details of the Steelers' handling of George Pickens confidential: "I'm not giving you any details."

In the Steelers game last week, Pickens was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct.

Mike Tomlin is keeping the details of the Steelers' handling of George Pickens confidential: "I'm not giving you any details."
Mike Tomlin is keeping the details of the Steelers' handling of George Pickens confidential: "I'm not giving you any details."

In less than three years in the NFL, George Pickens, the Steelers wide receiver, has been at the center of controversy several times.

After the Steelers' victory over the Bengals on Sunday, Tomlin emphasized the urgency for Pickens to mature quickly.

Despite leading the Steelers with three catches for 75 yards and a first-quarter touchdown against the Bengals, Tomlin was unhappy with the penalties Pickens committed.

The receiver received two unsportsmanlike conduct penalties during the game. Pittsburgh was given nine penalties for a total of 103 yards. On Tuesday, Tomlin refused to disclose further information about how he has managed Pickens' behavior since.

Mike Tomlin interacts with George Pickens
Head coach Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers talks with George Pickens (14) during a game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium Nov. 28, 2022, in Indianapolis. (Justin Casterline/Getty Images)

While conversing with reporters on Tuesday, Tomlin was questioned about the recurring penalties of Pickens, causing concern.

Tomlin replied, "I wouldn't necessarily tell you if it is or isn't, to be quite honest."

Pickens' private treatment was not intended to be made public by Tomlin.

"Tomlin stated that he would not reveal any specifics about the growth and development of the individual in question, as that is his preferred style and he intends to maintain consistency in it. He believes that being transparent with others may not necessarily aid in the growth process and that his primary objective is to accelerate it, not to satisfy the curiosity of others."

Mike Tomlin shakes hands with George Pickens
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin congratulates Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) after a long catch against the Washington Commanders at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Md., Nov. 10, 2024. (Geoff Burke-Imagn Images)

Pickens has been the subject of headlines several times this year, with his latest incident occurring on the field in Week 13. However, his exchange with reporters the day after Thanksgiving also drew some attention.

During interviews with journalists, Pickens referenced Marshawn Lynch's viral moment at the 2015 Super Bowl media day.

George Pickens stands on the sideline
George Pickens of the Pittsburgh Steelers stands on the sideline during the national anthem before an NFL preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium Aug. 11, 2023, in Tampa, Fla.  (Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)

Pickens kept repeating, "I'm just here to avoid fines," as reporters asked him questions.

Did Pickens inquire about any potential punishment from the NFL for his role in a post-game scuffle against the Browns, resulting in a 24-19 Steelers loss?

In the final play of the game, Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson attempted a Hail Mary pass towards the end zone. However, Browns cornerback Greg Newsome II was positioned near the pass and successfully prevented wide receiver Pickens from participating in the play.

A skirmish appeared to occur near the stands, but cameras missed the beginning. However, a quick pan showed Pickens and Newsome getting tangled up. The camera then showed Pickens being held back by two stadium security members near the seats. One fan was even holding Pickens' arm, leading to initial speculation that the player was getting into it with fans.

Pickens has 55 catches for 850 yards in 12 games this season.

Planet Chronicle' Ryan Gaydos contributed to this report.

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by Chantz Martin

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