Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Steelers WR has weak explanation for not finishing block

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens came under fire this week for a couple of plays in the team's 30-13 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. The harshest criticism was reserved for his failure to finish a block on a play that could have resulted in a Jaylen Warren touchdown had he put forth more of an effort — or any effort. 

On Tuesday, Pickens explained why he didn't finish the block on the play, and it basically came down to him making a business decision. In other words, he didn't want to risk an injury. 

The Tank Dell situation refers to a play where the Texans rookie was injured while blocking on a running play. Pickens also called out the media for not playing the game and understanding what it is like on the field. 

There are multiple problems with Pickens' explanation and the ensuing call-out. The first is the simple fact that an injury can happen on any play and in any situation. The second is that Pickens completely disengaged from the block before the play came anywhere near him and never even made an effort to block. 

It is also not just media members calling him out. Former players have done so as well

During his college career at Georgia and during his rookie season with the Steelers, Pickens had made several highlights for delivering huge blocks on defensive backs. This was such a complete 180 from that, and it resulted in harsh criticism. 

In a vacuum the missed block might not be a big deal as a one-time thing but Pickens also lost a jump ball to a significantly smaller defensive back on Saturday on a play that resulted in an interception and has only caught 29 percent of the contested balls he has been targeted on this season, down from 63 percent a year ago

Adding to the problem is that between Pickens and Diontae Johnson, the Steelers' top-two wide receivers have had multiple moments this season where their effort has been questioned for very good reason. It is just one of the many reasons why their offense remains near the bottom of the NFL.

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