NFL Combine: Steelers' Key Focus On Finding George Pickens' Long-Term Replacement

Laila Abdi

4 min read

Post on May 07, 2025

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Identifying Key Attributes in Potential Replacements

The Steelers' search for a George Pickens replacement hinges on finding a wide receiver with a specific blend of physical and skill-set attributes. They won't simply look for a similar player; they'll look for a player who can fill the role and potentially exceed expectations.

Physical Attributes:

• Size and Strength: Pickens' physicality is a major asset. He can win contested catches against bigger cornerbacks. The Steelers will prioritize prospects with a similar build – 6'0" or taller, and weighing at least 200 pounds with the strength to hold off defenders. Bench press, broad jump, and vertical jump results will be closely scrutinized.
• Speed and Agility: Elite speed and agility are essential for creating separation and making big plays downfield. The 40-yard dash, short shuttle, and three-cone drill times will be critical indicators for the Steelers' scouting team. They'll be looking for receivers who can consistently beat defenders off the line and create space for themselves.
• Durability: Given the importance of a long-term replacement, the Steelers will thoroughly scrutinize medical reports. Injury history will be a significant factor in their evaluation. The Combine medical checks are as important as on-field performance.

Skillset Attributes:

• Route Running: Precise route running is vital for creating openings and gaining separation from defenders. The Combine's route-running drills, while less formal, will offer valuable insights into a prospect's technique, precision, and ability to create separation.
• Catch Radius: A receiver with a large catch radius, similar to Pickens, is vital for making contested catches in traffic. The Steelers will look for players who display strong hands and the ability to extend their reach to secure difficult passes.
• Ball Tracking Skills: The ability to track the ball accurately through the air is a key indicator of success. This is less easily measured at the Combine but will be observed in drills and interviews.
• Hands and Body Control: Secure catching and excellent body control are vital attributes. Drops are unacceptable, and the Steelers will be keen to see evidence of soft hands and the ability to adjust to poorly thrown balls.

Prospect Profiles to Watch

While specific player names cannot be given until closer to the Combine, the Steelers will likely focus on prospects exhibiting the attributes outlined above. Look for receivers coming out of major college football programs known for producing NFL-ready talent. Scouting reports leading up to the combine will be vital to their selection process. Expect the Steelers' scouts to prioritize prospects with a proven track record of success against top-level competition. Furthermore, they'll likely look for prospects with demonstrable leadership qualities, a strong work ethic, and the right kind of personality to fit within the Steelers' team culture. They won't just look for skill; they'll look for character as well.

The Importance of the Combine Drills

The NFL Combine drills are far more than just a showcase; they're a critical component of the Steelers' evaluation process.

40-Yard Dash and Agility Drills:

These tests provide crucial data on speed and quickness, vital for the Steelers' offensive scheme. Exceptional times in these drills will immediately elevate a prospect’s stock in the Steelers' eyes.

Vertical Jump and Broad Jump:

These metrics indicate explosiveness and the ability to win jump balls, a crucial skill for a receiver like Pickens.

Route Running Drills:

While less formal than timed events, observing a player's route running technique during drills is a significant aspect of the evaluation. The fluidity of their movements, their ability to make sharp cuts, and their overall precision will be under intense scrutiny.

Conclusion

The NFL Combine presents a critical opportunity for the Pittsburgh Steelers to identify a long-term replacement for George Pickens. By focusing on specific physical and skill-set attributes, and carefully observing performance in key drills, they can enhance their chances of finding a worthy successor. The Combine will be crucial in confirming – or refuting – early draft projections and scouting reports. Careful analysis of players' performances will ultimately determine who emerges as the top candidate to fill Pickens' shoes. Keep following the latest news on the NFL Combine and the Steelers’ draft strategy to see which player emerges as the ideal George Pickens replacement.