Now that the 2022 season is over, Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback, Kenny Pickett is no longer a rookie. He will look to take a step forward in 2023, his second season in the league. Earlier in the week, it was announced that the team would retain Matt Canada as its offensive coordinator for the 2023 campaign. While fans may not necessarily like the move, it provides stability for Pickett as he continues to grow.
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback, Kenny Pickett (#8) takes to Acrisure Stadium alongside offensive coordinator Matt Canada in Pittsburgh, PA. | Credit: Jordan Schofield/SteelerNation (JSKO_PHOTO Twitter)
The two will be responsible for trying to build off the growth that was shown over the last two months of the season. The offense's improvements led to a 7-2 record down the stretch, almost sneaking them into the postseason. In a recent one-on-one interview with Dale Lolley of Steelers.com, Pickett addressed what he wants to come from his second season in 2023:
"Full ownership of the offense. They're giving me more responsibility and giving me the green light to go do certain things," Pickett said to Lolley. "So I think just complete ownership of this system is really what I want to do, and I think that will take our offense to the next level."
The offensive play-calling was certainly limited this season, as Canada probably wanted to simplify things for the rookie. That held especially true after Pickett threw eight interceptions in his first five appearances, something he fixed down the stretch. In his last eight games, the Pittsburgh Panthers product threw just one interception. He evolved his game in several facets, but protecting the ball was the most important improvement.
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback, Kenny Pickett (#8) drops back to pass during a regular season game in 2022 at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA. | Credit: Jordan Schofield/SteelerNation (JSKO_PHOTO Twitter)
In 13 games, Pickett's surface stats leave a lot to be desired. He threw for 2,404 yards and just seven touchdowns, while also rushing for an additional 237 yards and three touchdowns. Pickett was limited in what he could do, something he expects to open up in 2023. That should lead to more deep ball plays and opportunities, which should help the wide receivers put more of an imprint on the game.
What are your expectations for Pickett in his second season? What are your thoughts on the team bringing Canada back? What should be general manager, Omar Khan's priority for the offense this off-season? Share your thoughts in the comment section below, as well as on our social media sites, yinz!
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