Steelers QB1 Kenny Pickett Believes Calvin Austin III Will Have A Breakthrough Season In 2023

The Pittsburgh Steelers had high expectations for Calvin Austin III this past season, but quickly had these expectations diminished once the 2022 fourth-round pick was placed on injured reserved after sustaining a foot injury. The offense struggled tremendously in finding a reliable receiver out of the slot and would have benefitted in a big way if they had a player of Austin's speed in the role. While there is no denying his rookie campaign was disappointing, there is an immense amount of excitement from those within the organization regarding Austin heading into 2023. Assuming he can stay healthy, may be an integral part of the team's offense. 

There is perhaps no happier person for the return of Austin than starting quarterback, Kenny Pickett. During a recent appearance on the Not Just Football Podcast hosted by Cam Heyward, the second-year signal caller listed the wide receiver as a player who will take a significant leap forward in 2023. 

"I think he's [Austin] a guy who's worked really hard this offseason, had a great spring. I was really happy with how he played and all he does for our team. He's a guy I'm really, really excited to get the opportunity to play with," answered Pickett. 

Austin Could Prove To Be X-Factor In Steelers' Offense 

The Steelers are fortunate to have a formidable top trio of wide receivers in Diontae Johnson, George Pickens, and Allen Robison. In all likelihood, these three will play a majority of the snaps at the position this upcoming season, barring an injury. Austin is currently slotted to be the WR4, but will have to earn a role on the team's offense over players such as Miles Boykin, Hakeem Butler, and Gunner Olszewski. While these pass catchers are certainly capable of contributing to the cause, there is no denying that Austin is vastly more talented and possesses game-breaking speed that could help the offense stretch the field. 

At 5'9" and 162 pounds, many would assume that a player of his stature would be restricted to only playing in the slot. However, as Pickett pointed out in the interview, the Steelers may use him in a variety of different roles to best utilize his speed. 

"He'll [Austin] move around. I think we'll do a good job of using him in different areas and definitely putting him in positions at what he does best. In the spring, we really formulated the offense to put guys in position to succeed," said Pickett.   

Austin's versatility will prove to be monumental in getting him on the field during his second NFL season. Both Johnson and Pickens play a majority of their snaps outside the numbers, which may mean it will come down to Austin and Robinson to battle it out for primary slot receiver. Robinson, who has been highly productive over the course of his nine-year career, likely has the upper-hand at this point, but a strong performance during training camp and preseason from Austin could ultimately dictate the decision. 

Austin May Provide Additional Value On Special Teams 

During Austin's collegiate career at Memphis, he was an explosive return specialist who returned two punts for touchdowns. With the Steelers' 2022 return man, Steven Sims, off to play with the Houston Texans, there may be a competition between Austin and Olszewki for the role in 2023. If Austin does prove to be a viable option in the return game, it may open the door for the Steelers to only keep five wide receivers on the 53-man roster. 

The importance of Austin's second year can not be overstated. If all goes well, he will become a part of the team's long-term plan at receiver. If he continues to struggle with injury, he may find himself on the outside looking in when it comes to sticking around in Pittsburgh. Steelers fans should hope that things go well, as an injury-riddled 2023 season would provide shades of former draft bust, Dri Archer. Austin will be an interesting player to keep an eye on in Latrobe, Steeler Nation. 

Thoughts, Steeler Nation? 

Do you agree with Pickett that Austin is poised for a breakout year in 2023? Will he play more snaps than Robinson? What other players are you excited to watch in training camp? Be sure to let us know in the comments! 

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