Ex Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger Reveals Thoughts on George Pickens

In his most recent episode of this podcast “ Footbahlin” , Pittsburgh Steelers legend Ben Roethlisberger was critical of receiver George Pickens not doing the “little things” it takes to be great in the league.

He referenced a play that was a 3rd and 2 play from the Falcons 7-yard line. The call was a receiver screen to Van Jefferson on the right side with Pickens blocking the defensive back. Pickens got run over and the play was stopped short of the line to gain.

“It may sound overly critical of George, but in that situation, when you have a screen, if he gets that block, it’s a first down,” Roethlisberger said. “Maybe touchdown. He makes a lot of great plays, but if you want to be great, do the little things that are required as well.”

Earlier this summer during training camp, there was a blow-up between Pickens and his receiver coach about blocking. Blocking wasn’t something he was asked to do in college and he hasn’t wanted to do it in the NFL either.

“I know he can do it. I hope what you’re going to see is a guy who goes out there and gets a little bit nasty moving forward,” Roethlisberger continued. “That’s one where Coach Mike Tomlin might get on a guy. If Coach is willing to hold him accountable, he’ll get on him.”

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Pickens is a tremendous receiver, but to truly be one of the best, you have to do everything else.

He will get another chance this week as the 1-0 Steelers take on the 0-1 Broncos in Denver on Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET.