Mike Tomlin: There's an "outside chance" George Pickens plays this week

The Steelers did not have receiver George Pickens for their Week 14 victory over the Browns and they are likely to be without him again against the Eagles on Sunday.

Head coach Mike Tomlin said in his Tuesday press conference that Pickens could be characterized as doubtful for Week 15, but there is still an outside chance he'll play.

Tomlin explained that Pickens experienced some hamstring discomfort after last Thursday's practice, but still thought the receiver would be able to play in the game — even if limited to significant, known-passing situations.

"But when we got to the stadium, it was evident that maybe the circumstance was maybe a little more significant than we had hoped," Tomlin said. "So, we made the prudent decision in terms of shutting him down and not allowing a small problem to become a bigger one."

After Sunday's contest, Pickens underwent an MRI, which revealed the injury was more significant than initially believed.

"So, we’re just in the mindset now of getting him healthy as quickly as we possibly can," Tomlin said. "There’s a potential for this week, but it’s an outside chance. If you press me, I’d probably say he’s out, or could be characterized as doubtful as we sit here. But, again, like we always do, we’ll go through normal procedure. We’ll let participation be our guide in terms of availability and then obviously the quality of that participation."

Pickens leads the Steelers with 55 receptions and 850 yards. He’s caught three touchdowns.