It is what it is, Steelers running back Jaylen Warren’s insightful response to George Pickens

What did Jaylen Warren have to say after George Pickens didn’t block for him.

In the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 30-13 loss to the Indianapolis Colts, wide receiver George Pickens received criticism for failing to block a run by Jaylen Warren. Pickens made virtually no attempt to stop a Colts defender who tackled Warren before the goal line while Warren was racing in the red zone. If Pickens had worked more, Warren could have had a chance to score.

After receiving criticism, Pickens stated that he was attempting to prevent an injury similar to that one Houston Texans wide receiver Tank Dell experienced, which is why he didn’t try to block for Warren.

Pickens stated on Tuesday, “I was just trying to prevent the Tank Dell situation.” Tank Dell experienced the same thing. I wanted to avoid getting hurt. Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette said, “You can get ran up on very easily if you stay on the block too long.”

This was not a good look for Pickens, who has already faced criticism this season for his lack of effort, regardless of his justification. Following Picken’s explanation, Jaylen Warren provided his own analysis.

“I understand his perspective,” remarked Warren. “It is what it is.” He was acting in his own best interests at the end of the day. Different people have different ways of playing the game. I would have blocked for him if I had been in that position. We play differently, though,” Fittipaldo said.

George Pickens hasn’t shown the Steelers the kind of team player they want, especially considering how little he’s tried to help Warren. The fact that Warren explicitly stated he would have blocked for Pickens but Pickens declined to reciprocate says volumes. Pittsburgh has lost three straight games and is currently in the lower half of the AFC playoff race, which can be explained by their lack of effort and focus on the team.