George Pickens Avoids Fine After Altercation

Pittsburgh Steelers receiver George Pickens faced scrutiny for two unsportsmanlike conduct penalties during the Week 13 game against the Cincinnati Bengals, one of which involved a gun gesture. Despite the infractions, he was not disqualified, and Pickens, who leads the Steelers in receptions and receiving yards, has been a key player since being drafted in 2022. In a previous game against the Cleveland Browns, Pickens was involved in a physical altercation with cornerback Greg Newsome II during a Hail Mary attempt, but both players escaped fines from the NFL. Pickens had drawn fines earlier this season but managed to avoid punishment in this instance, while Browns safety Grant Delpit was fined for taunting after a separate incident. The Steelers aim to bounce back from their loss to the Browns as they prepare for their matchup with the Bengals.