The NFL is reportedly investigating Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens after he was spotted wearing an explicit message on his eye black during the team’s 20-17 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. The controversial message, which read “Open F***ing Always,” was displayed prominently under Pickens’ eyes during Sunday’s game and has sparked league scrutiny.
Pickens, a second-round draft pick in 2022, now faces the possibility of a fine for violating the NFL’s strict uniform code. According to ESPN, players are prohibited from “wearing, displaying, or otherwise conveying personal messages either in writing or illustration, unless such message has been approved in advance by the League office.” The message Pickens wore clearly did not receive prior approval, prompting the league to launch an investigation.
The incident occurred during a game in which Pickens played a career-low 34 snaps, finishing with just 26 receiving yards on three catches. After the game, the 23-year-old wideout refused to speak to the media, and he also declined interviews the following day, fueling speculation about his frustration and possible connection between his on-field performance and the provocative message.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin, when asked about the situation during his Tuesday press conference, claimed he was unaware of the eye black message. “I don’t know what messaging you’re talking about,” Tomlin said. “I didn’t have any outlying issue with his effort.”
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Pickens’ actions come as the Steelers grapple with a slow start to the season, sitting at 3-2 with their offense struggling to find consistency. Pickens, who has yet to score a touchdown this season, has seen reduced playing time, and his performance against the Cowboys was well below his usual standard.
This isn’t the first time the Steelers have dealt with eye black controversies. In 2015, two Pittsburgh players, Cam Heyward and DeAngelo Williams, were fined for messages written on their eye black.
Heyward honored his late father by displaying “Iron Head,” while Williams promoted breast cancer awareness with the message “Find the Cure.” Despite these heartfelt messages, both players faced penalties from the NFL, as the league strictly enforces its rules on uniform compliance.
The NFL has not yet announced a punishment for Pickens, but ESPN reports that any potential fine or disciplinary action is expected to be revealed on Saturday, ahead of the Steelers’ matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders.
As the league continues its investigation, Pickens’ decision to display the explicit message has sparked debate among fans and commentators.
While some view it as an expression of frustration or personality, others see it as an unnecessary distraction and a violation of the NFL’s uniform policies. Regardless, the incident underscores the tension between players wanting to express themselves and the league’s commitment to maintaining a certain standard of professionalism on the field.
For now, the Steelers will prepare for their upcoming game with the Raiders as Pickens awaits the league’s decision, which could come with both financial penalties and further scrutiny on his role within the team.
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