Steelers' George Pickens Fueled For Big Game If 49ers Lose Top Cornerback For Week 1

The Pittsburgh Steelers are rapidly approaching the start of their 2023 regular season. The preseason brought a ton of hype after Kenny Pickett led the first-team offense to five touchdowns on five drives and the team finished loss-free with three wins. The unit as a whole will be tested right out of the gate when the San Francisco 49ers come to town for the organization's first Week 1 home game since 2014. Kyle Shanahan's group is on a mission in 2023 to not just get back to the NFC Championship Game, but also make an appearance in the Super Bowl as well.

One of the biggest storylines heading into the Week 1 matchup was if the Steelers offensive line would have to worry about 2022 AP Defensive Player of the Year, Nick Bosa. The edge rusher was holding out awaiting a new contract after having a career year. He got that and more after officially agreeing to a massive five-year, $170 million deal. Putting pen to paper made him the highest paid defensive player in NFL history.

While Pittsburgh's offense looked solid in the 2023 preseason, Bosa has the same impact on San Francisco's defense that TJ Watt does for the Steelers. His availability could completely change the outcome of the game. Tight end, George Kittle is also a guy who makes an impact for Shanahan's team on the offensive side and is dealing with an injury that caused him to be a limited participant in practice on Thursday.

There's no doubt that Mike Tomlin's team has a difficult task as they enter Week 1 as an underdog at Acrisure Stadium. While they enter the matchup relatively healthy, San Francisco making the NFC Title Game was no fluke. Shanahan has a great offensive mind and the talent for his group is ever-present in all three phases of the game, including former Steelers return man, Ray-Ray McCloud.

Steelers Week 1 Opponent Has Key Defender Missing Practice Days Before Showdown

One of the more interesting things to note from the 49ers Week 1 injury report was something that popped up in regards to their cornerback position. Veteran defender, Charvarius Ward was unable to practice due to a heel injury.

Ward spent four years with the Kansas City Chiefs prior to becoming a part of the 49ers organization in 2022. He played all 17 games for San Francisco in his first season with the franchise and contributed an interception and forced fumble. He is the top corner on the roster and would likely be lined up consistently against Diontae Johnson or George Pickens.

Shanahan was asked about Ward's ailment and doesn't seem too concerned about the cornerback's status for the game against the Steelers. He should be good to go on Sunday.

"He had a little thing that came up [on Wednesday]. But I'm feeling pretty confident he's going to be alright," Shanahan told reporters.

Ward's participation at practice on Friday will give a better hint as to whether or not the injury is more serious than his coach is leading on. The cornerback situation behind him isn't all that impressive and the 49ers would be at a huge disadvantage against the Steelers if he is unable to go.

Do you think the Steelers will prevail in Week 1? How big of an advantage would it be if Ward can't go? Let us know in the comments below!

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