As the 2024 season began, there were high hopes for Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens. He had a strong second year, finishing with over 1,100 receiving yards and five touchdowns, even with poor quarterback play.
Fantasy football players were counting on Russell Wilson, who was named the starting quarterback at the start of the season, to improve things for Pickens.
However, Wilson suffered a calf injury before the season began, which kept him out for the first five games. When he returned in Week 6, he didn’t get many opportunities.
During Wilson’s absence, the Steelers used Justin Fields as quarterback. While Fields managed to lead the team to a 4-2 record in six games, he struggled as a passer, which limited Pickens’ production.
So far, Pickens has no touchdowns and just one game with over 100 receiving yards. He has also had 57 receiving yards or fewer in four out of six games.
In Week 7, things are changing as the Steelers plan to give the ball to Wilson. This raises the question: will Pickens’ production improve?
When Wilson takes over in Week 7, the Steelers will have a quarterback known for being a better passer than Fields, especially for deep throws. This puts Pickens in a much better position to succeed compared to when he played with Fields. Wilson is likely to stay in the pocket more, which means more potential targets for Pickens.
The main concern is that Pickens and Wilson haven’t practiced together much, so it might take some time for them to build chemistry. Their only game experience together was in a single drive during the preseason, where Wilson targeted Pickens twice, including a 32-yard catch.
In short, Wilson is expected to enhance the Steelers’ passing game, which should help Pickens. While it might not be wise to start Pickens right away due to the adjustment period, he could soon become a reliable starting option.
