The Pittsburgh Steelers have wrapped up their 2024 NFL Draft, earning widespread acclaim from pundits for adeptly addressing their needs and navigating the draft board to secure top value. Many observers hail the Steelers' draft as a resounding success, among the best in recent memory.
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Steelers' Russell Wilson speaks to the media.
The excitement surrounding the draft extends beyond Steelers fans, as even their new quarterback, Russell Wilson, couldn't contain his enthusiasm about the incoming talent. However, amidst the jubilation, there's a hint of unease for a former Steeler.
Ryan Wilson of CBS Sports suggests that the draft may have left former Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett feeling somewhat unsettled. Ryan Wilson posits that Pickett had to watch the 2024 draft from the Steelers and be upset that they are setting up Russell Wilson so well. Pickett may feel had they done this for him, he would have had more production.
"He lands in Pittsburgh on the cheapest of deals for veterans, and you can't not do it, it feels like, if you're the Steelers. And then all they do, and I'm sure Kenny Pickett is saying, 'Well, wait a second, why didn't you guys do this for me,' they bolster the offensive line, they bring in Arthur Smith, they get a slot receiver, and they also get some help on defense.”
The Steelers made strategic moves in the draft, securing Troy Fautanu, an offensive tackle, in the first round, followed by Zach Frazier, a center, in the second round, and Roman Wilson, a slot receiver, in the third round. Remarkably, all three picks represented incredible value, exceeding expectations set by pundits who anticipated these talents to be off the board before the Steelers' turn to pick. It's evident why Russell Wilson was thrilled about the prospects of this draft.
Ryan Wilson continued his praise of the draft. However, he did offer a dark reality for Russell Wilson should he struggle in 2024.
"This is one of the best drafts the Steelers have had in quite some time, and they're pretty good at drafting. I think this is best-case scenario for Russ Wilson to have success, and if this doesn't work out for Russ, I don't think there's anyone left to blame."
The 2024 season with the Steelers represents Russell Wilson's final opportunity to reaffirm his status as an elite quarterback in the league. With nine Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl championship under his belt, Wilson arrives in Pittsburgh following two disappointing seasons with the Denver Broncos.
Fueled by frustration and determination, he's poised to demonstrate his worth to the city and its fans. Ryan Wilson speculates that if Wilson fails to deliver this season, it could spell the end of his illustrious career.
Steelers' Kenny Pickett Saga
In the 2022 NFL Draft, the Steelers pinned their hopes on Pickett, a local talent from Pitt, selecting him in the first round with aspirations of him becoming the savior of the franchise. However, circumstances didn't align favorably for him, and he struggled to find his footing. Despite flashes of brilliance, particularly in clutch moments where he contributed to crucial wins, Pickett faced challenges with decision-making, accuracy, injuries, and overall productivity.
Matt Freed / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Former Steelers QB Kenny Pickett during his time at Pitt.
When the opportunity arose to acquire Russell Wilson, a seasoned quarterback, the Steelers seized it, recognizing the logical move for the team's success at a great cost. This decision understandably disappointed Pickett, leading him to request a trade, ultimately resulting in his departure to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Debates arose regarding whether Pickett received a fair opportunity, with some attributing his struggles to coaching under Matt Canada. However, the organization believed they had seen enough to make an informed decision, signaling their readiness to move forward. With Russell Wilson on board, the Steelers shifted into win-now mode, evident in their aggressive approach during the 2024 draft, a move that may have left Pickett feeling upset, as suggested by Ryan Wilson.
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Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett suffers an injury against the Arizona Cardinals.
Pickett's end in Pittsburgh wasn't ideal for anyone. Steelers fans were hopeful he could have used the addition of a veteran like Russell Wilson to his advantage and compete for his job. However, he didn't want to do that. Had he not gotten hurt against the Arizona Cardinals his career with the Steelers may have turned out different. However, the untimely injury was the end for Pickett in Pittsburgh.
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