George Pickens‘ time with the Dallas Cowboys is off to a rocky beginning, and he hasn’t even played a single snap. The wide receiver, recently acquired from the Pittsburgh Steelers in a surprising trade, is facing backlash after a now-deleted Instagram comment surfaced in which he allegedly slammed his former team, calling them the “cheapest organization” in the league.
While Pickens has denied making the comment, claiming it was generated by artificial intelligence while he was mid-flight with no internet access, the damage may already be done. Screenshots of the comment spread quickly on social media, leading to a wave of criticism from Steelers fans and raising new concerns about the receiver’s attitude.
Public denial and damage control
Pickens responded shortly after landing, stating: “Literally on a plane. No service. Just landed and seen straight lies from Pitt fans. Stop with AI trying to make a story. I’m happy for everything the Steel City did for me.” He also took a moment to wish fans a happy Mother’s Day, suggesting he hoped to steer attention away from the drama.
The timing of the alleged post couldn’t have been worse. It came just days after Pickens appeared in a Cowboys media call, where he seemed focused and eager to contribute to his new team. In that call, he avoided any jabs at Pittsburgh and instead expressed excitement about joining what he described as a “winning culture.”
Mixed signals and lingering questions
Pickens‘ exit from Pittsburgh already raised eyebrows. Though undeniably talented, reports had long suggested that Steelers coach Mike Tomlin and the front office were growing frustrated with his off-field behavior. The trade itself hinted that the organization was ready to move on.
Now in Dallas, Pickens has an opportunity to reset the narrative. But this early stumble, real or fabricated, underscores the fine line he must walk. In a high-profile market with high expectations, how he handles the pressure off the field may matter just as much as what he does on it.
Whether the comment was fake or not, George Pickens has already become a talking point in Dallas, and not for his route running.
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