Alternative candidates for Steelers Team MVP award in 2022

Malik Reed #50 of the Pittsburgh Steelers celebrates with Minkah Fitzpatrick #39 and Alex Highsmith #56 in the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on November 28, 2022 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
Malik Reed #50 of the Pittsburgh Steelers celebrates with Minkah Fitzpatrick #39 and Alex Highsmith #56 in the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on November 28, 2022 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) /
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Minkah Fitzpatrick was voted as the most important Steeler by his teammates on Friday. What other Steelers deserve recognition for their contributions? 

It’s been a different regular season for the Steelers, but their perseverance led them to a productive season. The transition between quarterbacks was an eyesore for passionate fans – a result of rebuilding the franchise. Key players stepped up and saved the season. Questions were answered and issues rose to the surface, helping Pittsburgh progress for seasons to come.

On Friday, players on the Steelers voted for the annual “Steeler of the Year” award – highlighting the efforts of their teammates for the season. Minkah Fitzpatrick was this year’s recipient joining Troy Polamalu and other legends.

Here are three alternative players whose efforts were enough to take home the hardware.

Steelers Candidate #3: George Pickens

Definition: Offensive Game changer

Matt Canada struggled to call plays that could not produce points for a consecutive season. This year, Pittsburgh finished mid-tier in total yards. Their lack of efficiency is reflected in their overall record.

If a game was still within reach, George Pickens filled in as the point catalyst. His dynamic skill set created mismatches throughout the season – resulting in a productive rookie season. Pittsburgh found first-round talent in the second round of the 2022 draft. No.14 quickly became a target for their developing quarterback, helping the team survive a period of growing pains.

An impressive stat line helped the Steelers’ rookie stand out among his peers. Pickens finished in the league’s top receiving yards per catch and top three in receiving yards. Spectacular catches amazed his fanbase – building anticipation for upcoming seasons. His role was prominent this season, making him a worthy candidate.