Last season was a trial by fire for wide receiver George Pickens. The then-rookie came in with tons of hype and potential and each week offered just a sneak peek at what he’s capable of on the way to 801 receiving yards on only 52 catches.
But those numbers are nothing compared to what they could have been. At least according to ESPN fantasy analyst Bill Barnwell. On NFL Live, Barnwell noted that in 2022, Pickens had the lowest expected catch rate of any receiver in the NFL. Translated that means he has the lowest percentage of catchable balls throw his way.
This stat is made even more remarkable when you consider Pickens had the highest catch rate by any rookie receiver last season. Let that sink he. He had the best hands in the league as a rookie and had the lowest percentage of passes thrown to him he should be able to catch.
Pickens will be working with Diontae Johnson this season to make the life of second-year quarterback Kenny Pickett easier. We can’t wait to see if one of them emerges as a true No. 1 receiver or if it will be more of a committee approach.
