Steelers' Dynamic Duo, Kenny Pickett And George Pickens Make The List Of 2023 NFL All-Breakout Team

The 2022 season began a new era for the Pittsburgh Steelers as Kenny Pickett took over the starting quarterback role following the retirement of future Hall of Famer, Ben Roethlisberger. While Pickett showed tremendous promise over the second half of this past season, he still has a long way to go to enter himself in the conversation of one of the best signal-callers in the league. 

In addition to Pickett, there is a fellow second-year offensive player for the Steelers who is poised to solidify himself as an elite player at his position group, George Pickens. Fans were fortunate enough to gain a small glimpse of the "Pickett-to-Pickens" connection in 2022, and are extremely excited to see this duo achieve even greater heights in 2023. 

Steelers' fans are not the only ones who have great expectations for Pickett and Pickens this upcoming season, as both cracked the list on the "2023 NFL All Breakout Team, Offense," written by NFL.com analyst, Bucky Brooks. 

A Dynamic Duo On Offense For The Steelers

There is no denying that the offense of the Steelers is in a much better position to succeed in 2023 compared to 2022. With an improved offensive line and a talented group of skill position players, the team has all the necessary tools to make some serious noise this upcoming season. With that being said, the offense will only go as far as Pickett can take them. Fortunately, as Brooks points out, the Steelers should feel confident in their second-year quarterback, due to his accuracy in throwing the football and his ability to perform well in big-time situations. 

"With Pickett also displaying the accuracy, ball placement and anticipation to shred defenses as a pinpoint passer, the youngster could quickly earn a seat at the crowded table of star quarterbacks in the AFC," described Brooks in regards to Pickett having a breakout season in 2023.

The expectations for Pickens entering his second season in the NFL are tremendously high, as he put up impressive numbers during his rookie campaign despite playing with multiple quarterbacks. He is perhaps the most physically gifted playmaker on the entire roster, which leads many people to think that he may overtake Diontae Johnson as the "WR1" for the Steelers at some point this season. Brooks is also a fan of Pickens and believes the former second-round pick has what it takes to make a serious jump in production in year two. 

"With more playing time and an expanded role on the horizon, Pickens could enter the conversation as a top-10 receiver by the end of 2023. The Pickett-to-Pickens connection will have Terrible Towels waving for years to come," said Brooks when talking about Pickens' level of play in 2023.

What Should Fans Expect From Pickett And Pickens In 2023?

Both Pickett and Pickens will play a pivotal role in helping the Steelers capture their first AFC North Title since 2020. With an AFC conference that is absolutely loaded with talent on the offensive side of the ball, the team will be counting on the Pickett-to-Pickens connection to be even stronger in 2023 than it was during their rookie seasons. 

With a full offseason as the Steelers' starting quarterback, there is reason to believe that Pickett will take serious strides this upcoming season. His cool demeanor on the field and respect within the locker room make him a viable candidate to have a breakout season in 2023. For Pickens, he is also in a great position to improve his on-field production next season. With the team boasting an impressive trio of top receivers in himself, Johnson, and Allen Robinson, he will likely avoid an extensive number of double-teams in 2023. 

Needless to say, Pickens is a nightmare for opposing defenses one-on-one. His physical style of play combined with his elite-level straight-line speed will help him become the Steelers' best deep-play threat. As long as the second-year pro is willing to expand his route tree, he is well on his way to garnishing serious consideration for a Pro Bowl nod in 2023. Get ready, Steeler Nation. This duo is ready to help the Steelers win a lot of games this upcoming season. 

Thoughts, Steeler Nation?

How do you feel about Pickett and Pickens cracking the list? Do you think they're ready to make a serious jump in 2023? Be sure to let us know in the comments! 

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