While Kenny Pickett didn't have have an eye-popping rookie season when it comes to statistics for the Pittsburgh Steelers, there is certainly optimism for the future. The signal-caller helped lead the team to a 6-2 stretch in the final eight games of the 2022 season and limited turning the ball over during that time. There is a lot of improvement fans are looking forward to and hopefully offensive coordinator, Matt Canada can step up in his third season as well. There is an extremely important offensive piece in question that, at the moment, is unknown and will be a key part of 2023 success.
Steelers offensive coordinator, Matt Canada stares into the distance prior to a 2022 regular season game at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA. | Joe Sargent / Getty Images
Currently, the team has two clear-cut options at wide receiver in Diontae Johnson and George Pickens. The duo will look to build on a 2022 rapport with Pickett and have the potential to be an extremely productive one-two punch. Surrounding a young quarterback with as many weapons as possible, however, is going to be very important for Pickett if he wants to take the next step.
After Steven Sims departed to the Houston Texans, the slot receiver position is in question. There's no doubt the 2022 fourth-round pick, Calvin Austin III is the favorite to take over the spot, but there's not much to base his potential off of other than a short stint in training camp and a 4.32 40-yard dash.
There's a lot that goes into a successful offense, but the NFL has evolved over time and a quarterback paired with his supporting cast are two pivotal factors if evolving into a crew to be reckoned with is a top goal. Pickett's offensive line isn't solidified, but played better at the end of 2022 and has made recent additions. No one truly knows what the plan is for the third wide receiver.
Steelers quarterback, Kenny Pickett (#8) scrambles and looks for a receiver during a 2022 regular season matchup against the New Orleans Saints at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA. | Photo Credit: Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Let's remove the idea of Odell Beckham Jr. joining the Steelers. Other than that, there are several options still available in free agency such as Jarvis Landry and there are going to be a plethora of options in the draft. Relying on Austin would be a poor move on Pittsburgh's part. Bringing in another potential weapon for Pickett could open up possibilities all over the place.
Speedsters like Josh Downs and Tyquan Thornton, among others, are going to be available on day two of the 2023 NFL Draft. It would be responsible for the Steelers to do their due diligence and not rely on a 2022 draft pick who has yet to prove himself. Pittsburgh's offense has weapons all over the place, but adding another formidable pass catcher as an option would be an extra leg of help for Pickett.
The rushing attack and current play-makers on offense will absolutely help the development and success of Pickett, but it's not hard to deny that the unit needs help. The best groups in the league have five or more options on every passing down. It's difficult to argue that Canada's offense currently possesses strong flexibility.
Steelers offensive coordinator, Matt Canada on the field at a practice during 2022 training camp. | Photo Credit: Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (@JSKO_PHOTO Twitter)
Steelers Need To Keep An Open Mind When It Comes To WR3
A slot receiver has the ability to get underneath defenses and become a legitimate threat all over the field. The Steelers are currently in need of one despite Austin's potential. The right guy could unlock a new dimension of the offense and weapon for Pickett as he looks to make a name for himself during his second season.
Do you think Pittsburgh needs to target a wide receiver in free agency or the draft? Let us know in the comments below!
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