The Pittsburgh Steeles wide receiver room has been the topic of conversation, and with good reason. As the room stands it is one of the least exciting position groups in the NFL, BUT there is a bright spot that has the potential to shine brighter. George Pickens is entering his third year in the NFL and even in a limited offense, he’s shown improvement each season.

In Pickens first two seasons he has 115 receptions, 1,941 yards and 9 touchdowns. Up until this year Pickens has been the number two receiver in the Steelers offense behind Diontae Johnson, who was traded to the Carolina Panthers this off season. At the moment, Pickens looks to be the clear number one option for Russell Wilson and/or Justin Fields. With GP most likely getting an expanded role, he may be on his way into the Pittsburgh Steelers history books. If Pickens is able to attain more than 1,265 yards this season, he will pass Mike Wallace for the most yards every by a Steelers receiver in their first three seasons; with his 1,941 yards, he currently sits ninth on the list.

Pickens has yet to surpass 1,200 yards in a single season but he gained more yards in his second season compared to his first. In 2022, Pickens had 52 receptions for 801 yards. In 2023, Pickens had 63 receptions for 1140 yards. Last season Pickens gained 18.1 yards per catch which lead the NFL.

With new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, we are not sure how Pickens will be used in the offense. I do anticipate Pickens to be the main focus of the passing game on offense due to his big play capability, especially off of play action. Also, Pickens should get better quarterback play than in his first two seasons. Russell Wilson and/or Justin Fields should be an upgrade from Kenny Pickett and definitely Mason Rudolph. We saw a drastic improvement in production from Pickens when Mason Rudolph assumed the starting role at the end of the 2024 season. I’m looking forward to so seeing another jump in production from Pickens in 2024, hopefully leading him to answer questions about his capabilities of being a wide receiver one.

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