3 reasons Steelers fans should be excited despite missing the playoffs

Steelers reasons for optimism: Is Kenny Pickett the future?

Kenny Pickett will have a full season to prove himself, despite what some Pittsburgh media might want. The Steelers did not draft Pickett in the first round last year just to move on from him this April.

Pickett did answer some important questions this season. He can win in this league, and has a commanding presence in the huddle. While his first few games were littered with inexcusable turnovers, he has since steadied the ship, and seen the field far better on a consistent basis.

Next year, Pickett will have to do more than just win over the organization and locker room — he will need to keep their attention, and win over an entire city of fans that are rightly skeptical. Pittsburgh is used to Ben Roethlisberger — a Hall-of-Fame level talent. And while Big Ben himself has even signed off on Pickett, it takes more than one season to replace a legend.

Pittsburgh has plenty of pieces in place on offense, and should sure up their offensive line via the NFL Draft with a strong left tackle, and perhaps more. On the outside, they could use a long-term replacement for Claypool in the middle rounds, if one is available. But running back is set with Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, as well as most of the receiving corps thanks to Diontae Johnson and George Pickens.

Now, it’s all about making Pickett more comfortable, and ensuring his progression.