It’s a new era for the Pittsburgh Steelers because it’s their first season after Ben Roethlisberger‘s retirement.
General manager Kevin Colbert also stepped down after the 2022 NFL Draft and was replaced by Omar Khan.
Sadly, the stadium formerly known as Heinz Field is no more after Michigan-based financial technology company Acrisure purchased the naming rights to the Steelers’ home turf.
But despite the changes, things are still looking up because Mike Tomlin remains at the helm.
Likewise, their defense has the reigning Defensive Player of the Year in T.J. Watt.
Speaking of the draft, one of Colbert’s finds is former Georgia Bulldogs wide receiver George Pickens.
The Steelers selected him in the second round and he is already reaping high praise from his fellow wideout.
The George Pickens hype is real ⭐️ @steelers pic.twitter.com/IUz9HOgR4j
— NFL (@NFL) July 31, 2022
Chase Claypool said of Pickens, “I think he’s gonna be the best rookie receiver in the NFL.”
If he lives up to the hype, Pittsburgh will have an explosive passing game with Claypool, Pickens, and Diontae Johnson.
Their starting quarterback will also get another talented target if Pickens meets or exceeds expectations.
Tempering Expectations For Pickens
While Claypool had nothing but praise for his teammate, he isn’t setting the bar too high by quantifying that he will be the best among the rookies.
The 2022 draft is highly regarded for its deep pool at wide receiver but the verdict is still out until they play.
It’s still an achievement if Pickens becomes the best wideout among his fellow draftees.
However, Claypool did not say he is not among the elite wide receivers yet.
He will have to learn a lot from the game in order to become a Pro Bowler or an All-Pro.
NEXT: Ben Roethlisberger Is Already Angering His Former Teammates