Posted on Oct 09
Steelers coach Mike Tomlin addresses Pickens' eye black message during game
u/alex •
NFL reviewing Steelers' George Pickens for explicit eye black message
Why it matters: George Pickens, wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers, is under review by the NFL for wearing an explicit message on his eye black during a game against the Dallas Cowboys.
- The league prohibits players from displaying personal messages without prior approval.
What's new: Pickens wrote "Open F---ing Always" in silver on his eye black, which has drawn attention and potential disciplinary action from the NFL.
Yes, but: Steelers coach Mike Tomlin claimed to be unaware of Pickens' message and expressed no issue with his effort during the game.
What to watch: The NFL's decision regarding any potential fine or punishment for Pickens' eye black message will be disclosed in the league's game-day accountability report.
-
Previous incidents involving personal messages have resulted in fines for players, including members of the Steelers.
-
In 2015, Steelers defensive lineman Cam Heyward was fined for writing "Iron Head" on his eye black as a tribute to his late father.
-
Running back DeAngelo Williams was fined for wearing eye black that read "Find the Cure" to honor his family members lost to breast cancer.
-
Steelers defensive back William Gay was fined for wearing purple cleats to support domestic violence awareness.
The bottom line: The NFL takes violations of its uniform policy seriously and has a history of enforcing fines for players who display personal messages on game day.
- Pickens' case will test how the league handles explicit language on eye black.
- It remains to be seen what specific actions the NFL will take in response to this incident.