Schefter: Steelers’ George Pickens Could Have Rough 2024 Season: 'Not Good For Your Fantasy Teams'

Adam Schefter, appearing on The Fantasy Points Podcast, praised Pickens but also cautioned that 2024 might not be smooth sailing in terms of production for the young wideout.

“Let me start by saying that there are not many wide receivers that are any more talented than George Pickens. Guy is a total freak. I remember someone telling me, ‘Yeah, he’s as good as a receiver as there is in the league if you just get him to the stadium on time.’ That’s George Pickens so that kind of guys always makes me a little queasy.”

Schefter explained that he thinks Pickens is a remarkable wide receiver. However, concerns about his attitude and effort are well-known around the league. Despite this, Schefter believes Pickens is a special talent. He feels that with the hiring of Arthur Smith as the new offensive coordinator, the offense may not provide Pickens with many advantages.

“Arthur Smith does a great job of spreading around the ball. Which is good for offenses but not good for your fantasy teams. Number three, we don’t even know who is going to play quarterback.” 

Schefter pointed out that the factors surrounding Pickens might not set him up for a major year in terms of production. Smith is known for his play-action passing and ground-and-pound, run-heavy offensive system. However, this doesn't mean Pickens can't have a big year; it just means Smith loves getting the entire offense involved.

The Steelers don't have much talent in the wide receiver room. They brought in some depth players like Van Jefferson and Quez Watkins, but it will be easy for secondaries to focus on Pickens since there are no other reliable wide receivers to worry about.

Steelers' Pat Freiermuth Due For A Major Year In 2024

Another element that benefits the Steelers, but might frustrate Pickens' fantasy football owners, is tight end Pat Freiermuth. Smith loves involving his tight ends, and Freiermuth is a talented receiving tight end who hasn't been utilized enough in his young career. It seems Smith will look to get Freiermuth heavily involved in the offense.

Despite the disadvantages Schefter believes Pickens will face in 2024, he remains an incredible wide receiver who will be catching passes from an improved quarterback. He's poised to have a big year regardless of the double coverage he might face. With Smith in town, the Steelers' offense is set to be much improved. Steelers fans are eager to see what Pickens' role will look like as a true wide receiver one in 2024.