Steelers coach places much more stress on George Pickens second season

The Pittsburgh Steelers have discovered one other high quality extensive receiver. Nevertheless, somebody feels that George Pickens can up his sport after a stable rookie season.

Pickens completed third on the crew in receptions behind fellow extensive receiver Diontae Johnson (86) and second-year tight finish Pat Freiermuth (63).

The Pittsburgh Steelers used a second-round choose a 12 months in the past on College of Georgia standout George Pickens. There have been some spectacular moments from the 2021 nationwide champion. He completed with 52 catches for 801 yards and led Mike Tomlin’s team in yards per reception (15.4 common) and landing grabs (4).

Steelers count on extra from George Pickens

So, what’s subsequent for Pickens? Second-year extensive receivers coach Frisman Jackson had some definitive ideas throughout a latest interview with 93.7 The Fan.

“We’re hoping so as to add to his repertoire,” added Jackson (through Steelers.com). “Final 12 months he confirmed the vertical a part of his sport. He has much more to his sport. Hopefully, this 12 months we will get him doing a bunch extra of what he’s able to doing. We gotta get him to be higher after the catch. He’s gotta be capable to take a slant and go 60 (yards) with it.

“He confirmed one a part of his sport final 12 months. We’re working and enhancing the opposite elements of his sport.”

Pickens completed second on the crew in complete touchdowns (5) behind working again Najee Harris (10). 4 of his 5 TDs got here through the Steelers’ 7-2 end. Each he and quarterback Kenny Pickett are getting ready for his or her second NFL season and with expertise comes nice expectations.

Pittsburgh’s extensive receiver depth chart contains Pickens, Johnson, veteran Allen Robinson (acquired via trade from the Rams this offseason), and speedy Calvin Austin III (who missed his rookie marketing campaign). Clearly, larger issues are being anticipated from the second-year professional who performed in all 17 video games and made 12 begins this previous 12 months. Pickens is seeking to make the Professional Bowl after being “snubbed” (his words) this past season. The expertise is three for a big 2023 campaign.