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Steelers rookie report card through 3 games

3 reasons the Steelers should start Kenny Pickett vs the Bengals

Now that the Pittsburgh Steelers have three games in the books, let’s take a look at the 2022 rookie class and hand out some early grades. Pittsburgh hasn’t been shy in recent years about getting rookies on the field and this season is no different.

QB Kenny Pickett

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If you grade quarterback Kenny Pickett on fan love, he gets an A+. But unfortunately for the fanbase, Pickett remains on the sideline, being patient and waiting for his opportunity after a very strong preseason.

Grade: Incomplete

WR George Pickens

(AP Photo/Jeff Dean)

An anemic offense hasn’t given wide receiver George Pickens a lot of opportunities but we have already seen flashes of what Pickens is capable of. We give Pickens a bump here even though he only has five catches in three games.

Grade: B+

DL DeMarvin Leal

The Steelers haven’t been shy about getting defensive lineman DeMarvin Leal on the field. Leal has beefed up and is still showing some great quickness and pursuit. Look for Leal to keep getting a heavier workload as the season goes on.

Grade: B+

WR Calvin Austin III

Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Wide receiver Calvin Austin III has been on IR so far this season but should be back soon so we can see his blazing speed on the field.

Grade: Incomplete

TE Connor Heyward

Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Tight end Connor Heyward has been active for every game this season but as the team’s third tight end hasn’t seen much of the field.

Grade: Incomplete

LB Mark Robinson

Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Inside linebacker Mark Robinson has been inactive all season after having a very strong preseason. With the struggles against the run, you have to think Robinson will eventually get his shot.

Grade: Incomplete

RB Jaylen Warren

(AP Photo/Matt Durisko)

The star of the Steelers rookie class so far has been undrafted free agent running back Jaylen Warren. Since joining the team Warren has impressed and has been so good he has forced head coach Mike Tomlin out of his comfort zone and used two running backs in the last game.

Grade: A

 

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