Former NFL Exec Dismisses George Pickens’ Star Potential, Claims Steelers WR is Too Impressionable to Succeed

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens faces significant pressure as he heads into the 2024 season. With the opportunity before him, he can establish himself as one of the top playmakers in the NFL.

Following Diontae Johnson’s trade to the Carolina Panthers, Pickens is now the clear No. 1 option in the Steelers’ passing game. However, the lack of other established receivers might make things challenging for him, as defenses will likely focus all their attention on him.

This is a challenge that top wide receivers in the NFL face regularly. To be considered among the elite, Pickens must prove he can overcome specialized coverages.

Yet, former NFL executive Dan Whaley has expressed doubts about Pickens’ potential for greatness. During an appearance on 93.7 The Fan, Whaley offered a critical view:

“I look at it this way: if he is that impressionable, you already got your answer if he’s the No. 1 or not. Jerry Rice wasn’t impressionable. Michael Irvin wasn’t impressionable.

“What I’m saying is, great players are focused on being great. They don’t let any outside or anyone else affect them trying to achieve their goal of being the best.

“And if George Pickens is being that influenced and it affects him, then you know what type of [player he is]. He’s not a No. 1, and you don’t pay him,” Whaley said.

Whaley’s comments refer to a report from this offseason. Gerry Dulac of The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette suggested that Johnson was traded partly because he was a negative influence on Pickens. However, Dulac also noted that the Steelers were ready to move on from Johnson regardless and found it laughable to think Pickens could be negatively influenced by a teammate.

While it remains uncertain if Johnson’s influence played a role, Whaley’s view is that an impressionable player cannot achieve superstardom.