The Pittsburgh Steelers took the field on Thursday for their final preseason game of 2023, which took place against the Atlanta Falcons.
They have some cautious optimism for the new season, in particular for incoming second-year quarterback Kenny Pickett.
Pickett completed all four of his pass attempts on Thursday, and he nailed a beautiful long pass downfield to wide receiver George Pickens, which set up a short rushing touchdown by running back Najee Harris.
Kenny Pickett to George Pickens: pic.twitter.com/nilLmwVp4n
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 24, 2023
By and large, fans loved what they saw on that play and felt it could be a sign of things to come.
One of the most underrated QB/WR duos.. Pickens going to be a problem this year 🔥🔥
— $DGKAcid (@DGKAcid) August 24, 2023
Steeler Nation should have fun during pickets year 2 jump.
— FADDE (@fadde) August 24, 2023
This fan is hoping offensive coordinator Matt Canada will open up Pittsburgh’s method of attack a little more.
Matt Canada calling an exciting and dynamic offense? No way man
— Austin (@AustinPlanet) August 24, 2023
But this fan reminded everyone of the truth — that, at least for now, the rival Baltimore Ravens have the better quarterback in Lamar Jackson.
Lamar is better
— Kyle (@ImKyleMangum) August 24, 2023
Pickett struggled early in his rookie season, throwing eight interceptions in his first five games, but he shook off his jitters and played much better football the rest of the way while helping the Steelers win six of their final seven games.
In Pickens and Diontae Johnson, they have a very solid and capable wide receiver duo that can help Pickens develop while building his confidence.
On the other side of the football, pass rusher T.J. Watt is looking to bounce back from a 2022 campaign that was marred by a pectoral injury.
The Steelers likely won’t make the playoffs this season, but perhaps they can protect head coach Mike Tomlin’s feat of never having a losing season since taking over in 2007.
NEXT:
Numbers Show Kenny Pickett Has Had A Flawless Preseason
