GeorgePickens

News: 3 days agoPickens recorded five receptions on five targets for 87 yards and a touchdown in Saturday's 28-14 loss to the Ravens.

Spin: Pickens was coming off a poor close to the regular season, though he keyed the slight offensive resurgence the Steelers showed in the second half of their playoff loss. That began with an impressive 36-yard touchdown catch, during which Pickens spun to split two defenders along the sideline. He also chipped in an acrobatic 26-yard leaping reception on an underthrown ball from Russell Wilson midway through the fourth quarter. Pickens will be entering the final year of his rookie contract in 2025, making him a potential extension candidate this offseason. Regardless of whether a deal gets done, he should be set to lead the Pittsburgh receiving corps once again next season.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: Heading into his third pro season, Pickens is the unquestioned top target in Pittsburgh after the club traded Diontae Johnson to Carolina. Last season, Pickens averaged 13.2 PPG, despite having inconsistent quarterback play. He flashed his big-play ability, as he logged four games of 20 or more points, including a season-high 35.5 against the Bengals in Week 16. Given his vertical ability (14 receptions on throws of 20 or more air yards), Pickens has real fantasy potential if the Steelers can get a higher level of play at quarterback from either Russell Wilson or Justin Fields. You can draft Pickens as a flex, but he certainly has the ability to produce breakout games that can win you a week.