4 storylines at Steelers training camp, including George Pickens terrorizing rookies

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Jul 27, 2023; Latrobe, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) runs after a reception against linebacker Alex Highsmith (56) in drills during training camp at Saint Vincent College. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 1: George Pickens is blossoming into a bonafide WR1 in the NFL

Seemingly every clip from Steelers training camp involves George Pickens “mossing” one of his teammates. The most popular instance came when rookie cornerback Joey Porter Jr. drew the assignment. Following the snap, JPJ stuck with Pickens downfield, but the gifted pass catcher won the rep anyway.

Pickens stopped on a dime and might have gotten away with offensive pass interference, depending on who you ask. Either way, the Georgia alum twisted and contorted his body around Porter Jr. and used vice grip-like hands to secure the pass. Pickens shot up off the field, placed the ball in JPJ’s hands, and let everyone know what just happened.

While this nature certainly rubs some football fans the wrong way, I personally love it. Players often get criticized for not caring enough; Pickens will never be accused of that. Plus, Joey Porter Jr. grew up in a house with Steeler legend Joey Porter — I would say he is accustomed to trash-talking.

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