The Pittsburgh Steelers have experienced their fair share of highs and lows, especially when it comes to player drama, often centered around the wide receiver position. However, there are hopes that this tumultuous chapter is now firmly behind them. The decision to trade away star wide receiver Diontae Johnson was reportedly motivated by a desire to alleviate the headaches he had caused within the organization.
This move underscores the Steelers’ continued belief in their young wide receiver George Pickens, despite the challenges he faced during the 2023 season. While Pickens showcased his talent on the field, he also grappled with attitude and effort issues.
During a press conference on Monday, Steelers’ Mike Tomlin and Omar Khan addressed the media regarding the upcoming draft. In response to questions about Pickens, Tomlin discussed the team’s perspective on Pickens’ potential as a leader and their outlook on his progression following the tumultuous start to the 2023 season.
“Certainly we are really comfortable with the trajectory of George Pickens in terms of what he’s going to be able to provide us as a player. Not only in terms of a playmaker, but what his experience within the room and within this organization.”
Tomlin expressed optimism regarding Pickens, even suggesting the possibility of him assuming a leadership role in the upcoming 2024 season. However, Steelers fans remain cautiously optimistic, waiting to see if Pickens can learn from his mistakes in 2023 and continue to improve as a positive presence within the team.
Despite earlier media scrutiny, Pickens displayed resilience and a commendable attitude toward the end of the 2023 season. Notably, his positive demeanor during the week 18 regular-season finale, despite not being targeted, resonated as a significant step forward for both Pickens and the team.
The aspiration is for Pickens to build upon the positive momentum he generated at the end of the 2023 season and carry that into 2024. While Steelers fans recognize Pickens’ immense talent as a playmaker, they emphasize the importance of him embracing professionalism and consistency.
In addition to Pickens, the Steelers are actively seeking another wide receiver to complement him. Speculation abounds that they may target a talented receiver early in the draft. Tomlin cited the example of Puka Nacua, who made an impact as a rookie despite being a late-round pick, highlighting the team’s willingness to find talent wherever it may lie in the draft.
“I’m comfortable with the trajectory of that room as we mentioned. The guys come in ready made and there’s a lot of talent available to us and a lot of those guys participate. If you look at the kid from the Rams was really significant this year and think maybe he was a fifth-round pick. That’s what’s going on at that position, so it makes us all comfortable. Not just us, but as a collective, the National Football League.”
From Tomlin’s remarks, it appears that the Steelers are open to turning to the draft in search of a polished wide receiver who can complement Pickens effectively.
Steelers’ Offseason Additions Provide Comfort For The WR Room
The Steelers made some small additions to their receiving corps this offseason, bringing in Quez Watkins and Van Jefferson. While these acquisitions may not have elicited overwhelming excitement among Steelers fans, they serve as valuable depth pieces that bolster the team’s options at the position.
Both Watkins and Jefferson will vie for roles within the offense, adding depth and versatility to the receiving unit. However, it’s evident that the Steelers still crave additional talent at the wide receiver position. Historically, the Steelers have excelled at identifying and drafting impactful receivers, and it appears they will once again prioritize this area in their draft plans.
