The Pittsburgh Steelers spent their second round pick of the 2022 NFL Draft on University of Georgia wide receiver, George Pickens. Pickens, who spent three seasons at Georgia, was the most recent Steelers receiver selected in the second round and the question is how much playing time and production can we expect from him in his first season in Pittsburgh. More specifically, can he usurp the Steelers 2020 second round pick, Chase Claypool on the depth chart and become the Steelers second receiver behind incumbent, Diontae Johnson?
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 21: Chase Claypool #11 of the Pittsburgh Steelers reacts during the game against the Los Angeles Chargers in the second half at SoFi Stadium on November 21, 2021 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
Claypool had a breakout rookie season in 2020 catching 62 passes for 873 and 9 touchdowns. However, Claypool appeared to take a significant step back in 2021 on and off the field. His numbers were eerily similar to 2020 in catches (59) and yards (860), but his touchdown numbers dropped significantly to only two scores. He also had multiple bone head plays during crucial points in games that left many fans wondering what his intentions were.
This off-season, Claypool self-anointed himself as a "top-three receiver in the NFL," but my question is, will Claypool be a top three receiver on the Steelers roster at the end of the 2022 season?
In Kevin Colbert's final draft as general manager, he clearly wanted the Steelers to be left in good standing. He drafted their future quarterback in Kenny Pickett and their future star receiver in Pickens. Pickens had quite an interesting college career and if you haven't seen him play any football, then I'd suggest watching these highlights.
Pickens only played 24 games in college with half of those coming in his freshman year. As soon as Pickens got to Georgia, he was an immediate difference maker. As a true freshman, Pickens led the Bulldogs in receptions (49), receiving yards (727) and receiving touchdowns (8). His 2020 campaign was capped by COVID-19 and he only played in 8 games. However, he led the Bulldogs again in catches and scores.
During the 2021 college football preseason, Pickens tore his ACL and missed a majority of the year. However, Pickens showed his determination and character and came back in less than six months. He was able to play five games for Georgia in 2021 including their win in the National Football Championship.
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver, George Pickens (#14) participates in the organized team activities (OTA’s), Thursday, June 2, 2022 at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex. | Karl Roser/ Pittsburgh Steelers
Now the question is, can Pickens translate his success in college to the NFL? The answer is a yes.
Pickens has already showed during his freshman year that he can come into a strange environment and dominate from the start. His long body standing at nearly 6'4" and weighing 195 pounds with a 34.5" vertical leap will create a huge target for the Steelers passers. Pickens' speed (4.47 40-yard dash) and agility are what will set him apart from others on the roster.
His height is almost identical to Claypool, but his slenderness and agility will allow him to create separation that Claypool struggles to obtain. Claypool showed he struggles to win at the point of attack and is not the most nimble player on the field at all times. His inability to win contested catches consistently is contrary to his large frame and body which can become frustrating for fans and coaches alike.
Pickens on the other hand has shown an innate ability to consistently win contested catches and create separation off the line of scrimmage. He also has great hands and has played on the biggest stages in college football and played well.
Claypool will likely be awarded the starting spot opposite of Johnson at the beginning of training camp, but that won't last for long. As head coach Mike Tomlin has showed, he isn't afraid to play a rookie for the betterment of the team. Pickens is a spectacular talent and he will demand playing time right away. Look for Pickens to have established himself as the team's second best catching target by the end of October and have a great rookie season he can build upon for the next decade in Pittsburgh.
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