The Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback room, consisting of Kenny Pickett, Mason Rudolph, and Mitch Trubisky, combined for just 13 passing touchdowns during the 2023 season. That is a dismal number, especially considering it came from three different signal-callers. The Steelers didn't even average a passing touchdown per game last season.
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Former Steelers quarterbacks Kenny Pickett, Mason Rudolph, and Mitch Trubisky wait for a drill to start during a practice in the summer of 2022.
Given this poor offensive performance, the Steelers made significant changes in the offseason. The team released Trubisky, let Rudolph leave in free agency, and traded Pickett. In a bold move, the Steelers signed former Super Bowl-winning quarterback Russell Wilson to a one-year deal at the veteran minimum. The franchise also traded for Justin Fields. These moves have generated excitement, with Fields and Wilson now leading the new quarterback room.
Pickett, drafted by the Steelers in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, was initially seen as the future of the franchise. However, after two seasons, some unfortunate circumstances, and a resume of 13 touchdowns and 13 interceptions, Pickett's time in the Steel City ended poorly. He led the Steelers to 14 wins and 10 losses. His tenure in Pittsburgh was considered a failure, though not entirely his fault.
Caught up with Kenny Pickett and talked about life in Philly and playing with Jalen Hurts. More tonight at 6/11. @NBCPhiladelphia pic.twitter.com/yIfWXsMQZq
— rob kuestner (@rkuestnernbc10) May 24, 2024
Now, Pickett is beginning a new chapter of his career with the Philadelphia Eagles. In an interview with NBC 10 Philadelphia, Pickett discussed how he is adjusting to his new environment.
"It's been great," Pickett said. "Obviously, Jalen's an incredibly talented player. He's played in a similar system, and we're kinda all learning this new one together. So the communication back and forth in the quarterback room has been awesome with the quarterbacks coaching us and Kellen (Moore). I couldn't ask for a better room, better staff to be working with. Obviously, the talent around this team is pretty special, so it's a great group to be in."
Pickett joins a team loaded with talent in the Eagles. However, he is unlikely to see any playing time during the 2024 season unless star quarterback Jalen Hurts is injured. Despite this, Pickett seems to be enjoying his short time with the Eagles and is looking forward to learning from his new quarterbacks and coaches.
Steelers' Kenny Pickett Will Remain A Major "What If"
The sad reality of Pickett's tenure with the Steelers is filled with unanswered "what ifs." For many Steelers fans, Pickett failed to meet expectations, while others take a more nuanced view.
Gene J. Puskar / Associated Press
Ex-Pittsburgh Steelers OC Matt Canada and Kenny Pickett look on during a game.
The offensive system he played in was notoriously poor, ranking among the worst in history. It was a difficult situation for a young quarterback. When Offensive Coordinator Matt Canada was fired midseason, Pickett responded with arguably his best game as a professional against the Cincinnati Bengals, completing 72.7% of his passes for 278 yards. However, he still did not throw a passing touchdown.
Following that game, Pickett was having another efficient performance against the Arizona Cardinals. As he attempted to run into the end zone, he got injured. This injury marked his last game on the field with the Steelers. Had he not gotten hurt, it would have been interesting to see how the 2024 offseason would have played out. If Pickett had remained healthy, the Steelers might not have pursued Fields or Wilson.
LA Press Photos
Former Steelers QB Kenny Pickett suffers an injury against the Arizona Cardinals.
When Pickett was ready to return, Rudolph was thriving, and Pickett didn't get another chance to start. Some reports indicated that Pickett was very upset about not reclaiming his starting spot. When the Steelers brought in Wilson, Pickett requested a trade out of frustration. It seemed the Steelers had seen enough and were ready to move on from the former first-round pick. The front office honored his wish and traded him to the Eagles.
Now, Pickett is set to be a backup with the Eagles and is thankful for the opportunity to continue his career in Philadelphia. Pickett’s story with the Steelers is one of unfulfilled potential, but his new chapter with the Eagles holds promise for his continued growth and development. Steelers fans will keep their eyes on Pickett to see if he gets another chance to start in the NFL.
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