George Pickens injury update: Pittsburgh Steelers reveal WR status vs. Eagles

The Pittsburgh Steelers (10-3) have officially ruled out receiver George Pickens (hamstring) for Sunday’s Week 15 road contest against the Philadelphia Eagles (11-2).

Pickens, 23, sustained the injury late last week, forcing him to miss Pittsburgh’s 27-14 win over the Cleveland Browns (3-10) this past Sunday. Pickens underwent an MRI, which revealed the injury to be more significant than previously thought.

Pickens has been Pittsburgh’s No. 1 playmaker this season, hauling in 55 receptions for 850 yards and three touchdowns. Without Pickens in the lineup, others were forced to step up against Cleveland — and they did. Scotty Miller, Mike Williams, Pat Freiermuth and Van Jefferson all made key plays in the passing game, the latter two recording touchdowns.

The Steelers will need similar contributions at Lincoln Financial Field as they attempt to snap the Eagles’ nine-game winning streak. Philadelphia’s defense has been dominant against the pass this season, No. 2 in the NFL (178.5 yards per game) behind only the Tennessee Titans (3-10).

Steelers rolling without George Pickens for 2nd consecutive week

“Obviously you adapt. It’s the reality in the NFL,” offensive coordinator Arthur Smith said this week. “Sometimes you have contingency plans. That’s why you plan ahead. If he plays, here’s what we’re going to do. If he doesn’t, how many snaps, whatever it is. That’s what you try to prep ahead of time so you’re not scrambling an hour before kickoff. It’s part of your job.

“When that happens, you adapt. Some things are by committee, some things you may not run. Certain things you change in your game plan. Certain things you change with that particular player.”

Along with Pickens, the Steelers ruled out safety DeShon Elliott (hamstring) and defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi (groin). Defensive tackle Montravius Adams (knee) and offensive lineman Calvin Anderson (groin) are questionable.