Bold predictions for Steelers as they take on the Seahawks

Pickens has a quiet day for the Steelers

The hottest name from Steelers training camp and it isn’t close. Since the first day, reports have come out of George Pickens dominating in drills and in practice. Like most, I am extremely high on the second-round pick, and I believe the Steelers got a steal with him being a second-round pick. That said, I think this first preseason game cools him off a little bit.

Assuming he stays healthy, expect Pickens to see a lot of burn in this first game. Add in his expectations, which seem sky high right now, and many are expecting a dominant performance from the rookie. Instead, I think he lays a bit of an egg and leaves most people wanting more. A few miscommunications, low stats, and a drop leave many with a sour taste in their mouth after watching him.

I do think he has his moments, specifically via a deep pass from Rudolph in the second quarter and a third-down conversion from Pickett in the third. Those that are expecting him to light it up right away though come away upset from his first game. No, that doesn’t mean he is a flop and won’t do anything as a rookie. Instead, it means he may need a little bit more seasoning before he develops into the star that he looks like.

While there will be plenty of time for every player to improve or worsen their stock after this first preseason game, be on the lookout for winners and losers from this game. While bold predictions this early is hard to truly hammer down, this is how I see the first game shaking out.