Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens responded to criticism about his lack of effort in a recent game, stating that he was trying to avoid injury. Pickens mentioned a previous injury to another player as the reason for his cautious approach. He brushed off the critiques and stated that those questioning his effort don't play football. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged that Pickens still has room for improvement in terms of effort. Pickens has been frustrated this season and has been captured on camera sulking on the bench and yelling at teammates. Despite his frustrations, his teammate Diontae Johnson dismissed the idea that Pickens' attitude was a distraction.