George Pickens gives a glowing endorsement for Steelers QB Russell Wilson

George Pickens played a pivotal role in the Pittsburgh Steelers’ Sunday Night Football victory over the New York Jets, showing why he’s considered the team’s top wide receiver. The Jets defense, already hampered by injuries in the secondary, tasked standout cornerback Sauce Gardner with keeping Pickens in check. However, Pickens was undeterred, thriving as a deep target for the Steelers’ debuting quarterback, Russell Wilson.

Pickens and Wilson found an immediate connection, linking up for five receptions and 111 yards, including a touchdown that electrified the crowd. Pickens’ ability to track the football against tight man coverage was on full display, as he consistently beat Gardner on downfield routes. His chemistry with Wilson was a key factor in Pittsburgh’s 37-15 win, as the two made it clear that they would be a force to reckon with for the remainder of the season.

After the game, Pickens spoke to the media about the offensive changes that helped the Steelers dominate the Jets. “They played a lot of man-to-man situations,” Pickens said. This played directly into the hands of the Steelers’ explosive wideout, whose physical playing style thrives against one-on-one matchups. He also acknowledged how playing alongside a seasoned veteran like Wilson only heightened his own performance, as it showed on the field.

George Pickens appreciates Russell Wilson's impact on Steelers' offense

Pickens praised Wilson’s impact on the team, recognizing his experience as a two-time Super Bowl participant.

“As a guy going to back-to-back Super Bowls, he knows when guys are blitzing. His cadence is a little more dominant, with guys jumping offsides,” Pickens shared, emphasizing that Wilson’s leadership and football intelligence made an immediate difference in Pittsburgh’s passing attack.

When asked what makes his partnership with Wilson so effective, Pickens highlighted Wilson’s ability to diagnose defenses before the snap and his accuracy on deep throws. “Locating the ball downfield, and you know Russ—pre-reading, seeing what coverage it is before the snap,” Pickens explained. This pre-snap awareness and developing chemistry enabled the duo to earn favorable matchups against the defense.

As the game unfolded, Pickens didn’t need to ask for the ball in crucial situations. “No, not at all,” he said. “When it was third and four, third and five, second and seven, they were playing man-to-man, and we’re taking opportunities.” The smooth connection between Wilson and Pickens was evident throughout the game, highlighting the boost Wilson’s experience has brought to the offense.

The Steelers’ 37 points marked their highest total since November 21st, 2021, signaling that the offense is finally improving. Pickens is fully behind the change, seeing Wilson’s arrival as the spark that could help Pittsburgh compete at the highest level moving forward.