The Pittsburgh Steelers are feeling good about their team heading into the 2023 season. Despite not making the playoffs last season, they finished 2022 on a high note, winning seven of their last nine games.
This offseason, general manager Omar Khan did a great job of upgrading the roster and filling positions of need. But, the most important thing to the Steelers taking that step forward this season is the progression of Kenny Pickett.
Pickett was the only quarterback selected in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft and struggled out of the gate. Turnovers were a big issue, but he turned things around after the bye week. After throwing eight interceptions in his first five appearances, Pickett threw only one in his last eight appearances.
Pittsburgh has some solid weapons around Pickett that will help keep him on track. They already had Diontae Johnson and George Pickens at wide receiver and are hoping Calvin Austin can get on the field after missing his entire rookie season.
Looking to bring some experience to the position, the Steelers acquired veteran Allen Robinson from the Los Angeles Rams. Robinson has had two tough campaigns in a row, struggling in 2021 before falling flat in 2022 with the Rams.
But, the Steelers have been a fan of his for a while and think he is the perfect fit for what they needed. Robinson is excited about being in Pittsburgh and recently spoke about Pickett, making some bold comments in the process.
“For a second-year quarterback he is definitely wise beyond his years,” Robinson said. “How he leads the charge. His work ethic day in and day out. Very focused. He is definitely beyond his years.
“I was impressed when I got here. Watching somebody from the outside looking in, you definitely see the talent. Once you actually get in the facility and are able to be around Kenny, you see why he is successful.”
That is some nice praise from Robinson, who has seen his fair share of quarterbacks during his time in the NFL. Some of those experiences are with other young quarterbacks, so for him to see such promise in Pickett is encouraging.
The Steelers will go as far as Pickett can bring them. Having another veteran such as Robinson to lean on will help immensely as he could be the missing piece to this offense taking that next step. With upgrades being made to the offensive line, the arrow is certainly pointing up in Pittsburgh.
