Steelers Quarterback Coach Mike Sullivan Explains How Kenny Pickett Is Poised To Make An Extraordinary Leap In 2023

The consensus among those within the Pittsburgh Steelers' organization is that the offense seems poised to be much better in 2023 than it was in 2022. Needless to say, the largest determining factor in turning this aspiration into reality is the level of improvement from second-year quarterback, Kenny Pickett. Entering his first offseason as the starting quarterback, Pickett has demonstrated his natural-born leadership ability and has proven to have the necessary attitude to help the Steelers compete in an immensely competitive AFC North.

Pickett's numbers during his first season were far from earth-shattering, as the University of Pittsburgh product finished his rookie campaign with more interceptions than passing touchdowns. Statistics aside, there is reason to believe that Pickett has done more than enough to not only earn the respect of the fan base, but also his teammates. 

Perhaps the biggest reason why Pickett has been so easily embraced is his impressive level of maturity both on and off the field. As quarterback coach, Mike Sullivan, explained during an interview following the team's second day of mandatory veteran minicamp, the sophomore signal-caller is wise beyond his years in terms of doing what it takes to be successful. 

"I think this offseason, he's [Pickett] done a really great job in terms of understanding the big picture of what we're trying to do on every specific play. He's also done a really good job of extending plays, we saw some of that last year on game tape, but he's picked up right where he left off," said Sullivan. 

Pickett Has Proved His Willingness To Do All The Little Things  

Pickett's strong performance over the second half of the 2022 season has led many to believe that he will lead the Steelers' defense to heights that have not been reached over the past few seasons. Furthermore, he will have a much improved collection of talent both in the offensive line, as well as the wide receiver room in 2023. 

With this in mind, there is much more that needs to take place in order for Pickett to make the "Sophomore Leap," this upcoming season. More specifically, his ability to do all of the little things that come along with the complexities of being an NFL quarterback. During the same interview, Sullivan detailed how he believes Pickett can make the leap in 2023. 

"The level of speed, the anticipation, the ball location, plays within the pocket. The faster [Pickett] is able to do those things and do them well, there's no shortcut to that. That only comes through repetition and experience. That's the next step, he's had a lot of quality work there. We can't wait to get to Latrobe," answered Sullivan. 

The Steelers Have Given Pickett The Necessary Pieces To Succeed In 2023

The Steelers' flurry of offseason moves in 2023 have made one thing abundantly clear, the team feels as if they're ready to win now, not just in the future. There has been a strong emphasis from Omar Khan and Andy Weidl to surround Pickett with players who will take some of the pressure off of him next season. In addition to the young talent on the offensive side of the ball, the Steelers' defense figures to regain their form as one of the most dominant units in the entire NFL next season.