Former All-Pro’s Pledge to Steelers’ Controversial Star
Former All-Pro wide receiver Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson has made a substantial commitment to support Pittsburgh Steelers’ wide receiver George Pickens as the team heads into a crucial offseason. Amidst a season filled with controversies, Pickens finds himself with a strong ally in Johnson, who voiced his unwavering confidence in Pickens’ ability to overcome past issues.
Johnson’s Bold Assertion
In a recent episode of the Nightcap podcast recorded live in New Orleans ahead of the Super Bowl, Johnson, joined by co-host Shannon Sharpe and former Steelers linebacker James Harrison, expressed his conviction that Pickens will no longer be a source of distraction for the team. Johnson disclosed that after a conversation with Pickens, he firmly believes that the young receiver has understood the implications of his actions and is poised to make significant improvements.
“I guarantee you won’t have any problems out of him no more,” Johnson asserted. “I done had that conversation with him. I guarantee you, and I don’t want to sit here and talk about what we talked about, but I told him, ‘Listen, that window of opportunity? That b—- shrink real fast now.’ It don’t matter how good you are, and I’ll use your line, ‘They’ll tolerate you until they can replace you.'”
Throughout the 2024 season, Pickens faced multiple challenges, including accumulating significant fines, reportedly exceeding $200,000 in damages during the 2023 campaign. Incidents such as his altercation with Cleveland Browns cornerback Greg Newsome II in Week 12 and his delayed arrival for the Steelers’ Week 17 game against the Kansas City Chiefs have raised concerns about his conduct.
Critical Decisions Looming
As Pickens enters the final season of his rookie contract, the Steelers face pivotal decisions regarding his future with the team. Options range from engaging in extensive contract negotiations to potentially trading him for reinforcements at the position or risking a holdout scenario.
Johnson advocates for the Steelers to retain Pickens, emphasizing the player’s untapped potential if provided with equivalent opportunities to other standout receivers in the league. He highlighted Pickens’ skill set and envisioned the impact he could have if given the same chances as top performers like Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson.
“Listen to me,” Johnson urged. “I’ve seen his skill set. I know what he can do. Stay with me real quick. If he got the opportunities Ja’Marr Chase got, in the Steelers’ offense, what do you think his numbers would be? … If George Pickens got the opportunity Justin Jefferson got with Minnesota, what you think his numbers would be?”
The unfolding saga surrounding Pickens promises intrigue as the Steelers navigate a delicate balance between his undeniable talent and the need for accountability. While Pickens has proven himself as a key offensive asset for the team, questions persist about his long-term suitability within the organization.