Former Steelers CB Expects Big Things for 2nd Round Draft Pick George Pickens

When the Pittsburgh Steelers parted ways with several of the wideouts in 2021, including JuJu Smith-Schuster and James Washington, the task was simple: get some players who can fill that void in 2022. So when George Pickens, the standout wide receiver from the Georgia Bulldogs, was available in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft at 52 overall, the Steelers pulled the trigger. Now, former Steelers CB, Bryant McFadden is calling Pickens the “steal of the draft” on the Cook and Joe Show on 93.7 The Fan.

George Pickens (14) catching a touchdown pass from quarterback Mitch Trubisky in the first quarter over Seattle Seahawks cornerback, Coby Bryant (8) during the Steelers preseason game on Aug. 13 at Acrisure Stadium. (Steelers.com)

What Type of Player is Pickens?

According to Pickens’ draft profile, he is a “lanky perimeter wide out with exciting ball skills.”

McFadden says he also has the traits of what the Steelers were looking for:

“George Pickens, if he didn’t get injured, he’s a first-round player. Offensively, he fits the Steelers mentality at the wide receiver position,” said McFadden on the Cook and Joe Show on 93.7 The Fan.

That mentality was on full display in the Steelers' preseason finale against the Detroit Lions when he was seen delivering a pancake block to a Lions defender:

Former Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver, A.J. Green (#10) during pregame introductions. | Aaron M. Sprecher/AP Photos

McFadden continued his praise for Pickens, comparing him to former Georgia Bulldog wide receiver, A.J. Green:

“He [Pickens] has a little more bark to what he does. A.J. Green was an impactful player and dominant player, but he did it in a nice way. Pickens is looking for action and is looking for a fight.”

While McFadden compares him to Green, Pickens also shows characteristics of Steelers legend, Hines Ward, with his relentless attitude and willingness to play through the whistle, especially when it comes to blocking.

Pickens is also known for his big-play capabilities and his ability to take the top off defenses.

The video speaks for itself. Over his first two seasons at Georgia, he recorded over 1,200 receiving yards on just 85 receptions while earning a spot on the SEC All-Freshman Team. Then, heading into his junior season, he was touted as a first-round pick according to Pro Football Focus. Unfortunately, a torn ACL derailed his potential breakout year, and consequently, his draft stock plummeted.

“If he can get back to the player he was as a freshman and sophomore, he’ll be a round 1 talent.”

What Can the Steelers Expect from Pickens?

Pickens has already turned heads and opened eyes during training camp and he’s shown us glimpses of his explosiveness during preseason action. Steeler Nation can expect much of the same during the regular season, but the play of Mitch Trubisky and Kenny Pickett may tamper his ceiling.

However, on the flip side of that coin, one could make an argument that the offense is already better without Ben Roethlisberger with Trubisky’s and Pickett’s mobility and capability to force the ball down the field. Under Roethlisberger’s realm, especially later in his career, the offense relied on a dink and dunk approach to move the ball which translated to a measly 4.8 yards per play – fifth worst in the league.

As a rookie, there will be growing pains, but if he can mesh with whoever is under center, it’s not out of the question to expect north of 100 targets and 700 receiving yards. If all the dominoes fall accordingly, Pickens could very well lead the Steelers in receiving in 2022 and could make a dangerous addition to an already young and talented wide receiver room.

How do you think Pickens will fair in the 2022 season? Do you think he will live up to the hype or do you think he will be a bust? Let us know in the comments below!

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