Steelers T.J. Watt With The Bottom Line On The Astonishing George Pickens, "He Is A Genetic Freak."

Pittsburgh Steelers rookie wide receiver, George Pickens blew football fans' minds with some of the fantastic catches he made in 2022. He has an uncanny ability to twist his body while leaping into the air, and despite pressure and sometimes contact from a defender, he hauls the ball in nearly every time. It almost appears like the ball and his hand have a magnetic attraction to each other. During the 2023 preseason, fans were relieved to get a taste of what they saw a year ago. Pickens did not disappoint. This has everyone singing his praises from teammates to analysts and even Pickens himself. 

Pickens was projected to be one of the best receivers coming out of college in the 2022 NFL Draft until he suffered a torn ACL that caused him to miss most of his junior season. He returned to support his team, the University of Georgia Bulldogs, and help them get to and win a National Championship. During that championship game, he received a 52-yard catch that helped them seal the win over the University of Alabama. 

That torn ACL caused him to drop some in the draft standings, despite his athletic abilities being well-known. However, the Steelers took a chance and selected him in the second round, 52nd overall, and many believe it might be the steal of the draft. 

Pickens' passion and hard work are winning over fans and garnering him national attention. Despite the Steelers switching quarterbacks during the Week 4 game to a rookie quarterback in Kenny Pickett, Pickens still managed to have some solid stats. He played in all 17 games and grabbed 52 catches out of 84 targets for 801 yards and four touchdowns. He even picked up another touchdown on the ground. Pickens led rookies for contested catches for the season with 19. 

Steelers' George Pickens Is A Freak According To A Teammate

The ever-outgoing and gregarious Pickens said in a recent interview that he is the best receiver in the NFL. He is not ashamed to make bold predictions and also said he believes the Steelers can get to the Super Bowl. 

On a recent episode of the Pat McAfee Show, another freakishly incredible athlete endorsed Pickens' abilities. Steelers outside linebacker, TJ Watt, was a guest on the show and McAfee asked him about Pickens and his ridiculous skills roping in balls. 

"He's crazy. He's a freak, a genetic freak. I still don't think he understands how good he is," Watt exclaimed.

McAfee also asked him about his personality. Pickens comes across as a bit of a jokester who is always in a good mood. In interviews, he is quick to praise his teammates as well as himself and his own efforts. Steelers fans fell in love with his quirky personality when he was caught on camera on draft night, posed in front of his TV with a ski mask on. 

The Steelers offense is young and these players are all learning how to support each other and work together. They are building trust and friendships. 

"You forget these guys are still so young. I mean he's just a kid coming out of college still, just living life to the fullest and not realizing how good of a player he is," said Watt.

While Pickens gave fans the chills with some of the catches he made in 2022, there is still always room for improvement. The offense as a whole showed positive development as the 2022 season matured and went into the offseason on a high note despite missing the playoffs. 

Pickett and Pickens as well as other offensive members got together prior to the start of the 2023 season to work on building their chemistry and performance. While the starters only played a few series during the preseason games it already appears that they are more in sync. 

With the preseason over, fans are anxiously looking ahead to the regular season to see the full variety of plays and how Pickens will actually be used. While there is little doubt about his talent, it will be interesting to see how the Steelers utilize him. 

What do you think about Pickens and his athletic abilities? Do you think he will be utilized better this year? Who do you think is the best receiver on the team? Do you agree with Watt about Pickens being a freak? Click to comment below. 

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