4 reasons Steelers QB Kenny Pickett could take the next step in 2023

1. Chemistry with Matt Canada

While many, including myself, were in the camp looking to fire Matt Canada in the offseason, there are definitely some positives to having kept him. First, Pickett will be entering this year with familiarity with the offense, having spent his entire rookie season playing in it. With him already knowing the offseason, this allows him to focus all of his attention on building chemistry with his new weapons and refining his craft, which should serve him well.

Additionally, with Pickett already knowing the offense, Canada can expand upon it and add new wrinkles and layers to it, giving the offense more plays to work with. This one is more of a caveat, as it is not yet known if he will do this, however, it is definitely necessary. Canada had some strong concepts and plays in his playbook, but there was not enough content and variety, which made the offense very predictable. Adding more to the playbook will keep defenses guessing, and would improve the efficiency.

In addition to an expansion of the playbook, hopefully, he places more trust in his quarterback now that he has a full year under his belt. Pickett was at his best in the 2 minute drill last season, leading to back to back game-winning drives against the Ravens and Raiders. If that is any indication of where this offense succeeds, the team needs to increase its pace and run more no huddle, while giving Pickett some input on what plays the team calls.

Pickett's poise, mobility, and football IQ are clearly things that helped him succeed last year and should be pieces that continue to make him a strong starting quarterback at the NFL level. Combine those things with the potential factors of an improved offensive line and running game, as well chemistry with his coach and talented pass catchers to throw to, and it's easy to see why Kenny Pickett could take the leap in year two, like so many other young quarterbacks have in recent years.