Pittsburgh Steelers owner Art Rooney II recently opened up about his concerns regarding young wide receiver George Pickens, emphasizing the team’s desire to see him develop both on and off the field. Pickens, a second-round draft pick in 2022, has quickly emerged as one of the most exciting playmakers on the Steelers’ roster, showcasing incredible athleticism and a knack for making highlight-reel catches. However, his potential has occasionally been overshadowed by inconsistency and questions about his maturity.

In a recent interview, Rooney expressed his admiration for Pickens’ talent but acknowledged areas for improvement. “George is a phenomenal athlete with a unique skill set,” Rooney said. “He’s someone we see as a key piece of our future. But with that said, we’d like to see him grow—not just as a player, but as a teammate and professional.”

The concerns come amid reports of occasional frustration from Pickens regarding his role in the offense and his chemistry with the team’s quarterbacks. While he has flashed brilliance on the field, some within the organization reportedly believe he has yet to fully tap into his potential as a complete receiver, particularly when it comes to route running, blocking, and maintaining focus during games.

Rooney’s comments reflect the organization’s commitment to helping Pickens succeed. The Steelers have long been known for developing elite wide receivers, and the team is hopeful that with mentorship and coaching, Pickens can elevate his game to the next level.

“George has everything it takes to be one of the best in the league,” Rooney added. “We’re here to support him, and we’re confident he’ll rise to the challenge.” As the Steelers continue to build their offense, Pickens remains a central figure in their long-term plans.