Steelers WR George Pickens responds to critics

Rookie WR George Pickens weighed in on his recent portrayal by the media. He states he never said he wanted the ball after looking visibly upset during the Steelers 19-16 win over the Falcons.

"I'm not just saying stuff for y'all to paint it, you know what I mean? Make a statement bigger than what it is or make something bigger than what it is," Pickens said to open up his post-practice presser on Wednesday. 

Pickens was held to one catch for two yards, and was only targeted twice in the Week 13 matchup. Over the past few days, some have taken Pickens' side while others have called his sideline antics 'diva-like.'

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin took his young receiver's side, defending him yesterday. "I want a guy that wants to be a significant part of what it is we do," Tomlin said. "Now the appropriate and professional and mature way to express that, we're growing and working on ... but that competitive spirit, the guy that wants the ball? Nah, I want that guy."