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Former GM Slams Steelers QB: 'Don't Think Kenny Pickett Has That Ability'

Some are still uncertain about the growth of the Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback.

Noah Strackbein

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PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers are heading into year two with Kenny Pickett under center. But while optimism is high for some, others believe the 2022 first-round pick is headed for a quick downfall. 

Appearing on ESPN's GetUp, former NFL general manager Mike Tannenbaum made it clear he doesn't see much upside in Pickett this season.

"Nope, despite Mike Tomlin’s greatness," Tannenbaum said when asked if the Steelers could make the playoffs. "Kenny Pickett really struggled getting the ball downfield. He was second worst in yards per pass attempt, and they have some really good receivers with Diontae Johnson, George Pickens, and they picked up Allen Robinson. But when you’re going up against Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow every week, you’ve got to be able to score points in chunks and I just don’t think Kenny Pickett has that ability."

Pickett averaged just 6.2 yards per attempt last season, but despite a poor stat line as a rookie, he's been one of the more hyped-up players this offseason. 

The Steelers are going to be a run-heavy offense this season, which will limit the pressure on Pickett. Still, Pittsburgh's success will rely on their quarterback taking a step forward, and if they make a playoff run, he will need to contribute in a big way. 

Some believe Pickett is going to lead the Steelers to the AFC Championship. Others, like Tannenbaum, don't see them back in the postseason. 

With training camp just days away, we'll get a much clearer look at what the 2023 Steelers - and Kenny Pickett - look like.

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Noah Strackbein
NOAH STRACKBEIN

Noah is the Publisher for All Steelers, Inside the Panthers (InsideThePanthers.com) and Inside the Penguins (InsidethePenguins.com), and is the host of All Steelers Talk (YouTube.com/AllSteelersTalk). A Scranton native, Noah made his way to the Pittsburgh sports scene in 2017. Now, he's pretty much full-yinzer.

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