The Pittsburgh Steelers received a glimmer of hope for their quarterback situation as Ian Rapoport shared some promising news on the NFL GameDay Kickoff Show Saturday morning. Kenny Pickett, who sustained an ankle injury during the Steelers' loss to the Arizona Cardinals and underwent tightrope surgery just 12 days ago, is showing optimism about his potential return to the field as early as Week 16 against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Gene J Puskar / Associated Press
Steelers Kenny Pickett leaves the game due to injury against the Arizona Cardinals.
During the segment, Rapoport had this to say about Pickett's return.
"As far as the question of when you are going to see Kenny Pickett, my understanding is he is pushing to play next week which would be incredibly quick. Less than three weeks after tightrope surgery and sure if he can pass the agility test, the strength test, the pain test, potentially he could play.”
Rpoport made an interesting comparison to Pickett's college days, shedding light on his past experience with tightrope surgery.
"My understanding is that this is expected more like in college when he had tightrope surgery and played 26 days later. That would put him on track to play week 17 against the Seahawks."
While Pickett is eager to return to action, the chances of him starting against the Bengals may be a bit too optimistic. Pickett's quick recovery would be a significant boost for the Steelers offense, especially during a crucial playoff push, but the decision ultimately depends on his ability to pass the required tests and regain full strength. In the brief span of his NFL career, Pickett has grappled with injury issues, underscoring the importance of ensuring his complete recovery and effectiveness.
AP Photo / Gene J. Puskar
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett (#8) escapes pressure during a game against the Tennessee Titans
This development brings a welcomed sense of excitement, particularly considering the prior reports that had suggested Pickett's possible return around Week 18 against the Baltimore Ravens. If Pickett can reclaim his starting role sooner, provided he is in good health and performing effectively, it could represent a significant transformation for the Steelers' offensive identity. Such a change could bolster their playoff aspirations and potentially set the stage for a promising postseason journey.
Pickett's injury has cast a shadow over his second season with the Steelers, but before getting sidelined, he had shown slight signs of progress. Steelers fans are yet to witness Pickett's performance post-Matt Canada, and his return to the lineup could inject much-needed stability into the offense.
Gene J. Puskar / Associated Press
Pittsburgh Steelers Matt Canada and Kenny Pickett have to work together in order for this offense to become any kind of equal to their defense
With Mitch Trubisky at the helm, the Steelers have faced offensive struggles, making Pickett's potential return all the more crucial. Every remaining game holds playoff implications, making it imperative for the Steelers to have their starting quarterback back in action. While the Steelers may have to wait a bit longer for Pickett's return, the hope of seeing him back on the field is undoubtedly a ray of optimism for the team and its fans.
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