Pickens says Steelers don't need WR help: 'We're good enough'
The Steelers have been linked to multiple wide receivers since trading away Diontae Johnson, but George Pickens - Pittsburgh's No. 1 wideout - is happy with the team's current weapons.
"Nah, I think we're good enough," Pickens told CBS Sports' Bryan DeArdo.
Outside of Pickens, Pittsburgh's wide receiver depth chart features an unimpressive group with veteran Van Jefferson, third-round rookie Roman Wilson, Calvin Austin III, and Scotty Miller, among others. The team also rosters tight end Pat Freiermuth, who's projected to be a big part of the offense.
The Steelers sent Johnson - a former 1,000-yard pass-catcher who had 87 targets in 13 games last year - to the Carolina Panthers in March. Pittsburgh has since been rumored as a potential destination for a few receivers, including former Offensive Player of the Year Michael Thomas and Brandon Aiyuk, who requested a trade from the San Francisco 49ers amid a contract dispute.
Coming off his first 1,000-yard season, Pickens hopes he can continue to improve ahead of Year 3.
"Really, just the same thing as last year," the 23-year-old said when asked about his individual goals. "I'm just trying to be the greatest."
The 2022 second-round pick caught 63 passes for 1,140 yards and five touchdowns in 2023, up from a 52-801-4 rookie stat line. His 18.1 yards per reception led the NFL last season.
Pickens built a reputation for his circus catches in the league and has already used this year's training camp to show he'll continue to be a highlight machine.
View from the stands via @PickensBurd of the George Pickens catch https://t.co/12PF58Fbex pic.twitter.com/SkvRJZYarp
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) July 26, 2024
"It's always good to score," Pickens said of the long play. "I'd probably say it felt good for the team. It's good team camaraderie, getting the team lit. Making plays is always fun."
Pickens' long touchdown at practice came on a deep throw from quarterback Justin Fields, who's been getting first-team reps as Russell Wilson deals with a calf injury.