Since the end of the Hines Ward era, the Steelers have struggled to find those quiet, unassuming, productive receivers. Year after year, they’ve seemingly found guys who are boastful, flashy, and all about themselves, with most having attitude issues.
Not that Ward was perfect, but nobody ever questioned his work ethic, understanding of the playbook, and ability to show up in big spots. The same really can’t be said for the likes of Diontae Johnson and Chase Claypool. George Pickens is working his way into that category now, too, which has the Steelers at a crossroads at the receiver position.