Pittsburgh Steelers receiver George Pickens displayed significant promise during his rookie year in 2022, but he truly made a mark last season. Despite dealing with inconsistent quarterback play from Kenny Pickett and Mason Rudolph, Pickens had a standout season with 63 receptions, 1,140 yards, and five touchdowns. He also led the NFL with an impressive 18.1 yards-per-catch average.
Although Pickens did not earn a Pro Bowl selection, his exceptional performance might be impossible to overlook in 2024. This optimism stems from the Steelers’ apparent improvement in their quarterback situation. The team signed veteran quarterback and nine-time Pro Bowler Russell Wilson to a one-year contract. Additionally, they traded for Justin Fields, a first-round pick from 2021. While Wilson is expected to start the season, Fields will also have ample opportunities to showcase his skills.
“Fields, expect him to get a lot of reps,” ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler said on SportsCenter, as noted by Nick Kosko of On3. “The Steelers, I’m told, love to get their backup quarterbacks reps. Sometimes with the first team, second team, and scout teams, they’re going to move Fields around to give him plenty of throws early on.”
Although Wilson’s deep passing ability has diminished in recent years, potentially affecting Pickens’ yards-per-catch average, the overall quarterback situation in Pittsburgh is likely to be more stable than last year. In 2023, the Steelers ranked 25th in yards and 20th in net yards per attempt, suggesting that even a modest improvement could lead to increased opportunities for Pickens.
While rookie wide receiver Roman Wilson will be vying for targets, the trade of Diontae Johnson positions Pickens as the clear top option in the Steelers’ receiving corps. This elevated role, combined with a better quarterback setup, could lead to an even more productive season for Pickens in 2024.
