The Pittsburgh Steelers have a budding superstar in wide receiver George Pickens. Pickens is having a great third season in the NFL, ranking in the top 10 for receiving yards and continuing to build an insane highlight reel of catches in the 2024 season. His playmaking ability is undeniable, and he’s quickly becoming one of the most exciting young receivers in the league. Pickens’ talent on the field is a big reason for the optimism surrounding the Steelers' offense this year.
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Steelers' George Pickens takes his helmet off during loss to the Browns in Week 12 of the 2024 season.
However, with all of his greatness comes some attitude and effort concerns. Pickens has often been criticized for moments where his focus seems to shift from the team's success to individual glory. There have been instances where it appeared he was more concerned with making an incredible catch than with the overall flow of the game. Though there have been signs of improvement, the 2024 season has also seen some antics that have gone viral, raising questions about his maturity and consistency as a teammate.
Former NFL GM Doug Whaley joined The Fan Morning Show on Wednesday to share his thoughts on what the future holds for Pickens. Whaley expressed concerns that while Pickens has the potential to be a game-changing receiver, his attitude could ultimately hold him back from reaching his full potential with the Steelers. Whaley believes that Pickens must continue to mature and align his personal goals with the success of the team if he wants to secure a long-term future in Pittsburgh.
"Everybody knows, it's going to come to an end very badly," Whaley said. "He is talented and what I call talent is this great seductress. So Medusa is there and you keep Medusa until it comes to end just like it did with AB, just like Santonio Holmes. Just keep on running down the list, but I would do it just for right now because you got a window, the defense is hanging on by a thread."
Pickens is still on his rookie deal, but the question surrounding his future with the Steelers is whether they'll offer him a second contract. Whaley believes that, eventually, Pickens' time in Pittsburgh will end badly.
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Steelers' Russell Wilson and George Pickens celebrate after connecting on a touchdown in 2024.
However, for now, he thinks the Steelers should keep him in their plans, especially as long as Russell Wilson is involved in the offense.
"You sign Russell for three or four years, keep 'em together 'cause you have a target and a talent," Whaley said. "Add some talent there [and] when the other talents you add start to overtake him and he starts to, when his production dips where you can't tolerate anymore, get rid of him."
The Steelers have shown no hesitation in the past when it comes to parting ways with wide receivers who prioritize personal gain over the team’s collective success. Pickens falls into that category, but he's still young and has a lot of potential. Despite a history of issues, Pickens is a competitor with a strong "dog" mentality. If the Steelers can harness that drive and guide him, he has the potential to become one of the best wide receivers in Pittsburgh’s storied history.
Steelers' Zach Azzanni Has Been Very Good For George Pickens
To reach that level, Pickens will need to mature quickly. Steelers Wide Receivers Coach Zach Azzanni has played a key role in helping shape Pickens’ mindset and growth. Although they had a heated debate during the 2024 offseason, it seems to have sparked some positive change in Pickens. While his frustration has shown at times, his attitude in 2024 has appeared more focused and controlled.
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Steelers' George Pickens getting coached by Zach Azzanni during practice.
However, when the Steelers have lost, Pickens has crashed out and gone viral. The Steelers and their fans will hope Pickens continues to develop into a leader, with hopes of him spending his entire career in Pittsburgh.
George Pickens and Greg Newsome on the final play of Steelers vs Browns pic.twitter.com/8N4vvU4wYj
— Val Dewar (flyweight enjoyer) (@the3els) November 26, 2024
It will be fascinating to see how the Steelers handle Pickens' future when the time comes. As his talent continues to shine, the key will be whether he can match it with the maturity and consistency needed to secure a long-term spot in the Steel City. Whaley doesn't see a good ending for Pickens in Pittsburgh but he also believes the Steelers should at least keep him past his first contract.
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