The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted quarterback Kenny Pickett in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, with high hopes that he would be the future of the franchise. Despite numerous opportunities to prove himself, after just two seasons, Pickett now finds himself in a new location as a backup.
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Former Steelers QB Kenny Pickett throwing a pass during a game.
Initially, the Steelers did not plan to move on from Pickett after the 2023 season. Instead, they aimed to ignite his competitive spirit by bringing in true competition. When the Steelers signed veteran quarterback Russell Wilson to a one-year deal worth the veteran minimum, they hoped it would motivate Pickett to elevate his game. However, this move backfired. Pickett, feeling threatened, became upset and requested a trade. The Steelers honored his request and dealt him to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Steelers fans have been puzzled by Pickett's reaction. He seemed upset about being a backup in Pittsburgh but appears content with his new role with the Eagles. Philadelphia's quarterbacks coach Doug Nussmeier recently spoke to the media, providing insights into how the organization views their new backup quarterback. Nussmeier emphasized that the Eagles see Pickett as a valuable addition to their quarterback room, praising his potential and work ethic.
“Well, excited to have Kenny here you know, and obviously it has been a really good experience the first couple of months here together. Really had a lot of respect for him as he came out of the draft.”
Nussmeier revealed that the Eagles have relied heavily on backup quarterbacks over the last two seasons. The organization is grateful to have Pickett on board, viewing him as a crucial asset in case the need arises.
“He had a lot of production there at Pittsburgh. Obviously went on with the Steelers and now with us. Excited about Kenny and what he brings. The last two years we have played with backup quarterbacks and I think that is a real part of this league. It is a physical game and it is hard to keep a guy healthy for 17 straight weeks. We value the backup quarterback position and we are going to invest in Kenny.”
The Eagles organization views Pickett as an investment. They have found their franchise quarterback in Jalen Hurts, a very mobile player who has dealt with injuries during his career. The Eagles feel comfortable knowing they have Pickett as a reliable backup in case Hurts goes down in 2024.
Eagles Wire
Former Steelers QB Kenny Pickett hugs Eagles QB Jalen Hurts after a game.
Pickett's time with the Steelers began with much promise. However, after compiling a 14-10 record and throwing 13 touchdowns against 13 interceptions over two seasons, the Steelers decided they needed a true quarterback competition. Pickett had no interest in competing for the starting role and felt the Steelers were doing him a disservice, leading him to request a trade.
Steelers' Kenny Pickett Was In A Bad Situation In Pittsburgh
Pickett was thrust into a challenging situation. Success in the NFL, especially for a quarterback, often depends on having a solid offensive system. Unfortunately, the Steelers' offense was among the worst in the league during Pickett's tenure. Fans struggled to discern whether Pickett's difficulties were due to his own limitations or the poor offensive system around him. Even the team itself seemed uncertain.
Gene J. Puskar / Associated Press
Former Steelers Matt Canada and Kenny Pickett look on during a game.
When the Steelers fired struggling Offensive Coordinator Matt Canada midseason, Pickett responded with the best game of his career. He started strong the following week before suffering an untimely injury, which turned out to be his last game with the Steelers as a starter. This left fans without a clear picture of Pickett's true potential, or lack thereof.
Now with the Eagles, Pickett is viewed as a valuable backup. The team appreciates his potential and feels secure having him behind Hurts. While his time with the Steelers ended ambiguously, Pickett's role with the Eagles offers him a fresh start and a chance to prove himself in a new environment.
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