The Pittsburgh Steelers offense will have to step up in a big way this fall if they want to achieve their goals and continue the mantra that “the standard is the standard.” Winning seasons are nice, but Steelers fans want the return to glory that this team has set a precedent for.
And while offense starts at the top with the play-caller and the quarterback, it takes 11 men acting as one to truly unlock the potential of a unit.
So in PFF’s latest dissection of every team, as we approach the season the Steelers have one “X-Factor” that stands above the rest, let’s see who that is.
X-Factor for 2023: WR George Pickens
Pickens showed flashes as a second-round rookie in 2022, catching 52 passes for 801 yards and 4 touchdowns to go along with a 69.3 receiving grade. The 22-year-old will have every opportunity to take over as the team’s No. 1 receiving threat and make second-year quarterback Kenny Pickett’s life easier in 2023.
How many TDs for George Pickens in 2023? ???? pic.twitter.com/yHuE7kS3V2
— PlayerProfiler NFL (@Profiler_NFL) May 11, 2023
I had Pickens as my number one overall wide receiver in the 2022 draft class, yet the Steelers scooped him in the middle of the second round, where he was the 11th wide receiver taken.
Looking back on the 2022 season, I’m sure a lot of teams would like a do-over on that one, especially when you consider the production that Pickens had in an offense that featured multiple quarterbacks and a questionable offensive scheme.
Quarterback Kenny Pickett recently appeared on the Pivot Podcast, where he raved about Pickens and his want to become an elite route runner, not just a spectacular catch extraordinaire.
The two have been building chemistry since rookie minicamp last year, and are continuing to do so in Miami, as they await the start of organized team activities.
It’s no secret that Pickens will be the straw that stirs the drink on offense and it’s why I second PFF’s notion of naming him the Steelers’ 2023 “X-Factor.” His ability to win in every area of the field will be paramount for Pittsburgh.
The Pickett to Pickens combo is the Steelers’ version of peanut butter and jelly, with the two hopefully building a fruitful partnership for years to come.
The next step in their career arc starts this fall though, so let’s see how the pair of sophomores handle their duties.
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