The Steelers (10-5) struggled to generate much in their passing game with their leading receiver watching them from the sideline in sweatpants.
PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens was a full participant in Monday’s practice, opening the door for him to return from a three-game absence Wednesday when Pittsburgh hosts the Kansas City Chiefs.
Pickens hasn’t played since suffering a hamstring injury earlier this month. The Steelers (10-5) struggled to generate much in their passing game with their leading receiver watching them from the sideline in sweatpants.
Although Monday’s practice was a step-by-step exercise, Pickens said he feels good and is hopeful he will be able to compete against the two-time defending Super Bowl champions.
The 23-year-old was doing drills after practice on Dec. 6 when he felt his hamstring tighten, forcing him to miss the first few games of his three-year career. Pittsburgh went 1-2 in his absence, including back-to-back losses to Philadelphia and Baltimore in which Russell Wilson passed for just 345 yards while missing one of the NFL’s top threats down the field.
Wilson is encouraged by how the sometimes mercurial Pickens — who has been flagged and fined multiple times this season for infractions ranging from wearing masks to unsportsmanlike conduct — has remained engaged.
“He’s been great in the middle of his little trial here over the last few weeks,” Wilson said. “And so we’re excited to have him back if that’s fully the case and let him do his thing.”
Safety DeShon Elliott (hamstring) and defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi (groin) were also listed as full participants Tuesday. Neither veteran has played since being injured against Cleveland on Dec. 8.
While Pickens, Elliott and Ogunjobi could be available as Pittsburgh tries to hold off Baltimore for the AFC North lead, cornerback Joey Porter (knee) and WR Ben Skowronek (hip) are likely out after missing practice. for a second consecutive day.
