The Pittsburgh Steelers 2022 draft class has the potential to become one of the better groups in recent history for the franchise. Kenny Pickett, George Pickens, DeMarvin Leal and even guys like Calvin Austin III, Connor Heyward and Mark Robinson will all have opportunities to make a real name for themselves in their second seasons. It's hard to argue that anyone is more important than Pickett, however. The young signal-caller has the task of filling the shoes of future Hall of Famer and two-time Super Bowl champion, Ben Roethlisberger.
Steelers quarterback, Kenny Pickett (#8) prepares to take a simulated snap on the field at Saint Vincent College during 2022 training camp in Latrobe, PA. | Photo Credit: Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Pickett will enter the 2023 season as the unquestioned starter after beginning his rookie season in 2022 as Mitchell Trubisky's backup. He eventually took over the starting role in a Week 5 game against the Buffalo Bills after replacing Trubisky at halftime the week prior. Pickett will have a revamped offensive line and weapons all over the place to take the next step.
One of the factors that could hold him back is Offensive Coordinator, Matt Canada's playbook. He hasn't been great during his time as the team's play-caller and Pickett's second-year success may hinge on what's being called inside the huddle.
Pickett was taken with the 20th overall pick in 2022 because the Steelers believed he was going to be the guy of the future. Now, as he enters his sophomore season, it would be ideal for him to put together a similar year that Bills' quarterback, Josh Allen did in year two. Some NFL writers are buying into the hype and believe he could be in line for a great year.
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett (#8) scrambles and looks to elude defenders during a 2022 regular season matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA. | Photo Credit: Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team recently released his predictions for who has the potential to be a breakout player in the 2023 season. Pickett didn't just land on the list. He was the first one on it.
"The AFC is stacked with star-studded quarterbacks, and the Pittsburgh Steelers are banking on Kenny Pickett joining that group. The former first-round pick didn’t blow away anyone last season, but there were things to like."
Meirov was complimentary of how Pickett finished his rookie campaign. It certainly was a complete 180 from the first half of the season. Pickett didn't light up the stat sheet, but put together a solid stretch after the bye week.
"He threw just one interception in his final eight games and led four game-winning drives. Pittsburgh General Manager Omar Khan, in his first full offseason, surrounded Pickett with talent, adding G Isaac Seumalo, G Nate Herbig and WR Allen Robinson while also drafting OT Broderick Jones and TE Darnell Washington."
The additions will definitely play a role in Pickett having success in 2023. Jones has the potential to give him all the time in the world to throw while Seumalo will beef up the inside of the line. Robinson and Washington are just two more weapons to utilize.
Steelers veteran wide receiver, Allen Robinson running through drills during Organized Team Activities (OTAs) in Pittsburgh, PA. | Photo Credit: Benjamin B. Braun / Post-Gazette
The Steelers Added To An Already Talented Group On Offense
The players brought in during the 2023 offseason could be enough to make a quarterback happy, but Meirov wanted to remind everyone of the other personnel that is lurking in the Steelers' locker room.
"Add all those players — along with WR George Pickens, WR Diontae Johnson, TE Pat Freiermuth and RB Najee Harris — and you could see why the Steelers expect Pickett to make a second-year leap."
Pickett has everything he needs to make a massive jump entering his second season. He has had the entire offseason knowing he will be the go-to-guy and there's reason to believe that Pittsburgh may be a lot more competitive than many expect them to be. The weapons are there. If Canada (and that's a big if) can deliver, the Steelers will have a chance to win the AFC North.
Are you expecting Pickett to breakout in his sophomore year? Let us know in the comments below!
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