George Pickens is proving to be one of the NFL’s most explosive wide receivers in 2024, sitting fourth in receiving yards with 728 yards through the first 10 games of the season. His performance has been instrumental in helping the Pittsburgh Steelers reach a strong 8-2 record and secure 1st place in the AFC North after their dramatic 18-16 win over the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday. Despite being in just his third season, Pickens has made a name for himself as one of the league’s top playmakers, trailing only Ja’Marr Chase (1,056 yards), Justin Jefferson (912 yards), and CeeDee Lamb (774 yards) on the receiving yards leaderboard. All three of these wide receivers have received All-Pro nods, which places Pickens in elite company.
What’s especially impressive about Pickens’ 728 yards is how efficiently he’s been racking up yards despite limited opportunities. With just 48 receptions and 2 touchdowns, Pickens has turned each catch into a substantial gain, averaging 15.2 yards per reception. His big-play ability has been a key part of the Steelers’ offensive success this season, and his performance has been even more remarkable when considering the ever-changing quarterback situation in Pittsburgh.
Of his 728 receiving yards, 365 have come in the last four games with Russell Wilson now under center. The connection between Pickens and Wilson has clearly blossomed over this stretch, as Wilson’s deep-ball accuracy and playmaking ability have enabled Pickens to thrive. Before Wilson took over as the starter, Pickens was still producing, with 363 yards in the first six games of the season, when Justin Fields was the quarterback. Despite the quarterback change, Pickens’ ability to maintain a high level of production demonstrates his adaptability and natural talent.
If Pickens continues on his current pace, he’s on track to finish the season with around 1,237 yards, which would be a career high. He posted 801 yards in his rookie year and 1,140 yards last season, so surpassing the 1,200-yard mark would solidify his status as one of the NFL’s elite young wide receivers. With his big-play ability and chemistry with Wilson continuing to grow, it’s easy to imagine Pickens not only surpassing his previous career highs but potentially becoming one of the top wide receivers in the league.
Looking ahead, the Steelers have another critical test as they face the Cleveland Browns tomorrow night. Pickens has been consistently productive against the Browns, averaging 69 yards per game in his career. Last season, he had a standout performance against Cleveland, hauling in 127 yards and a touchdown in the Steelers’ 26-22 victory in Week 2. Given his success against the Browns and the growing connection with Wilson, Pickens could be poised for another big game, helping to further solidify his place among the NFL’s top receivers.
George Pickens is making a strong case as one of the most promising young wide receivers in the NFL. With 728 yards so far this season, he is helping lead the Steelers to a top spot in the AFC North. With his explosive playmaking ability, solid route running, and growing rapport with Russell Wilson, the future looks very bright for Pickens. As he continues to put up impressive numbers and play a key role in the Steelers’ offense, Pickens is well on his way to becoming one of the premier wide receivers in the league.
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