Steelers News
George Pickens Excited for Russell Wilson Deep Shots
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens talked with reporters about Russell Wilson and what he brings to the huddle.
PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers sit at 4-2 and will have their hands full as they host the New York Jets on Sunday Night Football. The biggest question of the week has surrounded, once again, the quarterback position, and whether the team will be able to get George Pickens and the passing offense going.
Despite the 4-2 start, Mike Tomlin may be leaning toward inserting Russell Wilson into the lineup. Justin Fields has played admirably; earning the praises of offensive coordinator Arthur Smith and his teammates. However, the Steelers are only averaging around 20 points a game. Fields has also displayed moments of erratic performance that were seen frequently in Chicago.
While Tomlin has been mum on who is going with, it was reported earlier in the week the Steelers likely will be going with Wilson now that he is healthy. After practice on Friday, George Pickens caught up with reporters and was asked about both quarterbacks.
The Veteran Approach
Pickens notably has had previous chemistry and relationship with Fields. Both were, at one point, Georgia Bulldogs and featured in top recruit ranks. Wilson will bring a new element that Pickens highlighted, โRuss, you know how he attack the game, approach the game. Winning two Super Bowls, itโs always a little different.โ Thatโs the gamble Tomlin is hoping will pay off. A veteran, Super Bowl-winning quarterback guiding the offense and elevating their play.ย
Pickens further detailed Wilsonโs approach as a veteran quarterback and leader. โIn the huddle, just procedure and stuff too. Coming to the line of scrimmage, making certain calls, knowing where guys are blitzing, knowing where guys are.โ Whatever it takes as Pickens revealed Wilson is putting in extra work with him. โGetting on the same page after practice throwing, more than usual because this is his first start.โ
More Shots Down Field?
Not only does Wilson bring veteran leadership to the position, but he is also one of the best deep-ball throwers in the game. For Pickens, if thereโs one area he can make an impact is deep downfield with his exceptional ball skills and body control. โThatโs just like part of his game too. He likes to [push the ball] down field โฆ (Iโm) super excited.โ
Hearing that Pickens is excited is something the Steelers need. Pickens, a fiery competitor, has had moments recently where his attitude and motivation have been questioned. Prior to week 5, Pickens was on pace for 85 receptions for north of 1200 yards while ranking as the 5th most open receiver. Going into week 7, those projections have dipped to 73 receptions for just slightly over 1000 yards.
While Pickens emphasized, play wise, nothing will change, it will be interesting to see how he and Wilson connect down field. If the Steelers can steal a win going into next week, they would have a chance to go 6-2 going into the bye; in a race with the Baltimore Ravens for the AFC North.
Alan Saunders provided reporting from Pittsburgh.