Steelers WR George Pickens held back by safety after loss to Browns at TNF

On By Littum

On the final play of the Steelers’ 24-19 loss to the Cleveland Browns Thursday, the Pittsburgh wide receiver George Pickens could be seen battling into the back of the end zone with the Browns defensive back Greg Newsome II. The two frolicked near the stands before Russell Wilson‘s Hail Mary pass had even been deflected.

While most of the players either celebrated or hung their heads in defeat when the ball hit the ground, Pickens and Newsome continued to battle. A referee moved towards the couple as soon as he saw them engaged, and with the help of stadium security, the fight broke up.

It’s no surprise that Pickens was frustrated by the game’s conclusion. It was a long night for both teams as they battled through blizzard-like conditions. Consequently, stadium workers shoveled snow off the field every chance they got.

If they failed to do so, the referees would not even be able to tell where the end zone began and ended. Nevertheless, the two teams never considered stopping the game and fought for it until the end.

Unfortunately for receivers, snow isn’t always conducive to rolling in a football. On seven targets, Pickens finished the game with four receptions for 48 yards.

Pickens’ 48 yards were the fewest he has recorded in a game since the Steelers’ 20-17 loss to the Dallas Cowboys on Oct. 6. Obviously, he didn’t hesitate to rule out any frustration with Newsome at the end of the game.

Pickens’ scrap with Newsome wasn’t the first time he’s had trouble with the Browns’ defensive backs Thursday night. Earlier in the game, Brown’s safety Grant Delpit grabbed Pickens’ mouthpiece and threw it on the ground.

The refs called an unsportsmanlike conduct call and the Steelers scored on the next play. Nevertheless, the Browns stole the last laugh, securing just their third win of the season.

Despite the loss, the Steelers still sit atop the AFC North standings, followed by the Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals and Browns — in that order. As of this report, the Steelers have not addressed George Pickens’ conflict with Newsome.