Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett. Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports

Three takeaways from Steelers' first preseason game

By Aaron Becker | Last updated 8/14/23

The Steelers had some good and bad in their 27-17 win over the Buccaneers. Here are the three biggest takeaways from the team's first preseason action.

Kenny Pickett looks like the real deal

Pickett only got one series to start the game, but he showed control of Pittsburgh's offense. In the team's opening drive, Pickett threw for 70 yards and a touchdown and had six completions to four different receivers.

The second-year quarterback not only spread the ball around but took a deep shot to WR George Pickens which resulted in a touchdown. Of course, it was a small sample size but if this is a sign of what's to come, Steelers fans should raise their expectations for the 2023 season.

Calvin Austin III is fast

Austin III finished the game as the team's leading receiver and rusher. His 96 all-purpose yards were impressive, but everyone wanted him to showcase 4.32-second 40-yard dash speed. That's exactly what he did on his touchdown catch.

.@CalvinAustinIII’s speed is unreal

: Stream #PITvsTB on NFL+ https://t.co/bBFpXewtKp pic.twitter.com/WhuklXcdjj
— NFL (@NFL) August 12, 2023

The only thing we didn't get to see was Austin III in the return game, which was a surprise as he is listed as the team's primary kick and punt returner. He's been a mystery since suffering a foot injury in training camp last year that ended his rookie season before it even started. Now, it's likely we've seen just the beginning of Pittsburgh's newest weapon.

The Steelers drafted two stud defenders from Wisconsin

Pittsburgh drafted a pair of Wisconsin Badgers in the 2023 NFL Draft in DT Keeanu Benton and LB Nick Herbig. Both wreaked havoc on Tampa Bay's offense.

Benton, a second rounder, left the game early with an ankle injury but made himself known quickly by shutting down one of the Buccaneer's drives with a tackle for a loss on a fourth and one.

Herbig, the Steelers' fourth-round pick, led the team with 1.5 sacks. Some believed he wouldn't be able to find success as an edge-rusher in the league with his 6-foot-2, 240-pound frame. He shut down any doubters in his debut.

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