Steelers General Manager Omar Khan Mentions 1 Particular Veteran That Has Helped George Pickens Growth

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made it a point of emphasis to reload their roster over the past few seasons. That was exemplified during the 2023 offseason by General Manager, Omar Khan. In the process, the team has brought in a fountain of youth in the past few NFL drafts. Wide receiver, George Pickens is one of the examples, as the team used a second-round selection on him in the 2022 NFL Draft.

The team has historically drafted wide receivers well and it looks like Pickens could be joining that illustrious group. In 2022, he racked up the fourth-most receiving yards (801) amongst rookies. Entering 2023, expectations are that he will take that next step forward. Several people around the league have touted him as a potential 2022 breakout candidate. Head Coach, Mike Tomlin was one of those people, as he's seen impressive things from the talented playmaker.

In an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show on Thursday, Khan spoke about Pickens. He specifically identified one particular veteran that has helped with Pickens' growth throughout the 2023 offseason and into the summer. That veteran has not only helped Pickens, but the wide receiver room as a whole.

"George keeps doing George things. They're pretty special, unique things. He's growing. He's progressing. We'll see where the jump is from year one to year two. I'll tell you the guy that's had a real impact on him too is we added Allen Robinson this year. Allen's the ultimate pro, and I think he's been great for George and Diontae, really all of the guys in the receiver room," Khan told McAfee and his team.

In a move that was made out of nowhere, the Steelers acquired Robinson from the Los Angeles Rams in April. It was a much-needed move in terms of the team's depth at wideout, as they severely lacked a proven third option. Along with the on-field benefit though, the acquisition brought some leadership to the offense. In 2022, the youthful offense lacked veteran leadership at times.

Who Is Steelers' Offensive Leader In 2023?

Center, Mason Cole served that role, while Najee Harris helped as well in 2022. The wide receiver room needed a veteran presence though, making Robinson even more of a perfect fit. The move was very similar to the signing of cornerback, Patrick Peterson. The duo can be looked at as two highly accomplished players that still have plenty of gas left in the tank. Like Robinson, Peterson has already provided a boost in the leadership department.

Peterson's been able to help mentor the likes of rookies Joey Porter Jr. and, before his injury, Cory Trice Jr. Guys like these two are crucial in every locker room. Think back to the signing of Joe Haden, as he was such a vital piece in revitalizing Pittsburgh's secondary. The nice blend of talent and veteran leadership now has fans expecting a return to the playoffs in 2023. 

Robinson, who will enter his 10th NFL season, has a lot to prove in 2023. After some elite years with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Chicago Bears, he's struggled over the past two seasons. In that span, he has just 71 catches for 749 yards and four touchdowns. Perhaps of the most concern, he's missed 12 games. The 2022 season will prove whether or not he can still play at an above-average level. Regardless of his on-field play though, he'll provide value elsewhere with his leadership.

What are your expectations/predictions for Robinson's stat line in 2023? Which of the team's veteran acquisitions will provide the biggest impact? Will Robinson be the team's No. 3 wide receiver in 2023? Share your thoughts in the comment section below, as well as on our social media sites, yinz!

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