In a surprising yet exciting development during NFL organized team activities (OTAs), Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens has found himself under the tutelage of none other than Dallas Cowboys Hall of Famer Michael Irvin. The move has generated buzz throughout the league as the brash, ultra-talented Pickens receives one-on-one mentorship from one of the greatest receivers in NFL history. For the Steelers organization and fans alike, the partnership signals a commitment to unleashing Pickens’ full potential in 2025—and a fresh direction for the offense under offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.
A Chance Meeting, A Golden Opportunity
While the sight of Irvin in Steelers colors might raise eyebrows, the backstory behind his presence at OTAs makes it all the more compelling. The mentorship reportedly began when Irvin visited the Steelers’ practice facility during a media tour in early May. Known for his energetic presence and deep passion for the wide receiver position, Irvin struck up a conversation with head coach Mike Tomlin. The two discussed the challenges and growth of young wide receivers across the league, and naturally, Pickens’ name came up.
“George has that dog in him—he reminds me a lot of myself at that age,” Irvin said during an NFL Network interview last week. “He’s raw, he’s emotional, he’s fiery, but more than anything—he’s a competitor. I saw a kid who’s got everything it takes to dominate, but just needs the right guidance.”
By the next week, Irvin was back—not as a guest, but as a mentor. The Steelers coaching staff welcomed the opportunity, and Pickens reportedly jumped at the chance to learn from the three-time Super Bowl champion.
Pickens’ Rise: A Talent Waiting to Be Unleashed
George Pickens, now entering his third NFL season, has been one of the league’s most electric young receivers. The 2022 second-round pick out of Georgia has amassed 1,941 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns over his first two seasons. His highlight reel is filled with acrobatic sideline catches, deep ball hauls, and contested grabs that defy logic.
But with that talent has come inconsistency and scrutiny. Pickens has occasionally clashed with coaching, expressing frustration over his usage in the Steelers’ conservative offense. Last season, under former offensive coordinator Matt Canada, Pickens was often misused, limited to go-routes and sideline fades while the offense sputtered under quarterback uncertainty.
Enter Arthur Smith, and now, the unexpected addition of Michael Irvin.
The idea is clear: take Pickens’ raw ability and mold him into a dominant, polished, all-level threat. And who better to lead that transformation than “The Playmaker” himself?
The Irvin Effect: Mentoring Beyond the Playbook
Michael Irvin brings more than technique and tape study. He brings fire, legacy, and an ethos of excellence. In his career with the Cowboys from 1988 to 1999, Irvin tallied 750 receptions for 11,904 yards and 65 touchdowns. He was known for his ruthless route running, physicality, and unparalleled competitiveness.
At OTAs, Irvin has been working directly with Pickens on the finer details of route running—release techniques, separation at the top of the route, and deception with footwork and eyes.
“He’s showing me how to sell the dig and still keep the corner guessing,” Pickens told reporters after Tuesday’s practice. “Coach Irvin’s a legend. I grew up watching his highlights. He’s helping me play smarter, not just harder.”
Beyond mechanics, Irvin is working on Pickens’ mindset. Known for his fierce intensity, Irvin believes that success starts between the ears.
“I told him, greatness isn’t just about talent—it’s about preparation, leadership, and the ability to control emotions in the moment,” Irvin shared. “You can’t just react. You have to lead. You have to dominate the game before the ball is even thrown.”
The mentorship also includes off-field lessons. Irvin has been vocal in team meetings, speaking about preparation, media narratives, and staying focused in a world filled with distractions.
For a young receiver like Pickens—who’s had moments of public frustration—Irvin’s guidance could be transformative.
Steelers Embrace a New Era
The Steelers are entering 2025 with cautious optimism. The Kenny Pickett experiment ended quietly last year, and now with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields both in the quarterback room, the offense is undergoing a major identity shift.
Arthur Smith has already begun installing a more dynamic offensive scheme, one that moves away from predictable play-calling and toward misdirection, play action, and vertical concepts. Smith, who found success in Tennessee with A.J. Brown and in Atlanta with Drake London, sees Pickens as a premier X-receiver who can take over games.
Irvin’s presence only accelerates that process.
“It’s rare that a Hall of Fame player shows up and genuinely invests in the development of a young star,” Smith said. “We’re not talking about a guest speaker. Michael’s in the huddle, on the field, coaching technique, reading defenses, and empowering George to see himself as the focal point of the offense.”
Pickens, for his part, seems re-energized.
“I want to be the best,” Pickens said on Wednesday. “Not just highlight catches. Not just ‘potential.’ I want to win games, make All-Pro, and help bring a title back to Pittsburgh.”
Veteran Leadership and Locker Room Impact
Irvin’s influence isn’t confined to wide receiver meetings. His energy has permeated the entire locker room. Veterans like Cam Heyward and Minkah Fitzpatrick have praised Irvin for connecting with younger players and reinforcing the “Steelers standard.”
“He walks in the room, and everyone listens,” Heyward said. “He doesn’t sugarcoat. He tells it like it is—but always with passion and purpose.”
Diontae Johnson, the Steelers’ other top wideout, has also taken part in Irvin’s film breakdowns and route sessions. While Johnson is more reserved, his connection with Pickens could grow under Irvin’s mentorship.
“They’re working together more,” said wide receivers coach Frisman Jackson. “It’s great to see them push each other and learn from one of the best to ever do it.”
A Precedent for NFL Legends as Mentors?
Irvin’s OTA stint could set a new precedent in the NFL. While teams have welcomed former players for speaking engagements or ceremonial appearances, few have embraced true hands-on mentorship the way Pittsburgh is doing with Irvin.
“It’s not about nostalgia,” said Tomlin. “It’s about development. If a guy like Michael Irvin is willing to give back to the game and help us get better—why wouldn’t we welcome that with open arms?”
Players and coaches around the league are taking notice. Some have even suggested that other Hall of Famers—like Calvin Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald, or Randy Moss—could find similar roles in mentoring younger receivers across the league.
“I think it’s a brilliant move by Pittsburgh,” said NFL analyst Louis Riddick. “What Pickens needs isn’t just coaching—he needs someone who’s walked the walk, someone who can show him how to carry the weight of stardom.”
The 2025 Outlook: Pickens the Star?
As OTAs progress and training camp looms, all eyes will be on George Pickens. Can he make the leap from potential to production? Will the mentorship of Michael Irvin result in a more refined, consistent, and dominant version of the 6-foot-3, 200-pound receiver?
If early reports are any indication, the answer is yes.
Pickens is already showing sharper route discipline in 7-on-7 drills, catching balls in stride, and vocalizing more in meetings. Coaches say his attention to detail has grown, and teammates note his renewed focus.
The Steelers will need every ounce of that growth. Competing in a tough AFC North with Lamar Jackson’s Ravens, Joe Burrow’s Bengals, and a revitalized Browns team, the margin for error is thin. But with a new offense, a loaded receiver room, and a Hall of Famer in the mix, Pittsburgh may be poised to surprise critics.
“We’re building something special,” Pickens said. “And I’m grateful to Coach Irvin for believing in me. This is just the beginning.
