3 Steelers that will improve in 2023, and 1 who absolutely won’t

Steelers that will improve in 2023: Kenny Pickett

Pickett is the single player the Steelers need to improve the most if they want to return to the playoffs next year. Predictably, his performance as a rookie has been uneven at best. He needs to take a big step forward next year if he wants to cement his status as Pittsburgh’s quarterback of the present and future.

The first thing Pickett can do to improve his performance is to cut down on his turnovers. He’s thrown nine interceptions against just five touchdowns on 333 passing attempts this season. Pickett needs to learn that throwing the ball away is sometimes the best course of action.

Pickett’s performance in his second professional season should also benefit from Pittsburgh improving his offensive line. He’s really struggled to deal with pressure as a rookie. Providing Pickett with a cleaner pocket should be an offseason priority for GM Omar Kahn and his front office over the coming months.

Questions surrounding Pickett this offseason shouldn’t really focus on whether or not he’ll improve. There’s little doubt he’ll play better with a full offseason as a starter under his belt. The question should be whether or not Pickett can do enough to lock up the starting quarterback position in Pittsburgh for the next decade. If he makes that sort of leap it could lead the Steelers to a deep playoff run in 2023.