The Pittsburgh Steelers have been missing one of their top playmakers over the last few weeks.
Pittsburgh star receiver George Pickens hasn’t appeared in a game since Dec. 1 as he has dealt with a hamstring injury. Luckily for Pittsburgh, he could be back soon. Pickens’ absence certainly has been felt and has negatively impacted the passing game. Russell Wilson has been missing his top receiver but he reportedly has a “realistic” chance of returning in Week 17’s Christmas day matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
“It sounds like they have a realistic sense that that he has a chance to be back which certainly would help the offense,” Schefter said. “Look, their season is on the line here. The division is at stake. I think that they had that game hopefully in mind the entire time for Pickens to come back.”
Wednesday’s showdown is going to be the most important game of the season for Pittsburgh. The Steelers just lost against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 16 and now the AFC North is completely up in the air. The Steelers certainly can still come out on top in the division, but a loss against the Chiefs would severely hurt their chances.
The fact that Pickens may return is a welcomed sight. Wednesday’s matchup very well could end up being the difference between a playoff game at Acrisure Stadium or Pittsburgh having to hit the road in the first round of the postseason.
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