The Pittsburgh Steelers were not messing around when they drafted Kenny Pickett in the first round of April's NFL Draft. The rookie has already turned heads in the preseason and fans everywhere are calling for him to start right out of the gate. While that is not likely, Mitch Trubisky will be on a tight leash heading into the regular season and Pickett's time may come sooner rather than later if his teammate's play falters. Kevin Patra, a writer for Around The NFL, wrote a piece on a few rookies who could have the same impact for their teams that Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver, Ja'Marr Chase did a season ago. Pickett was part of the group.
Jordan Schofield / Steeler Nation (JSKO_PHOTO, Twitter)
Patra even gave rookie wide receiver, George Pickens a shoutout, but believed that Pickett has the biggest breakout ability due to the position that he plays on the field:
"I could have easily gone with George Pickens as the Steelers' most impactful rookie, but in the end, the QB position wins out. Pickett has improved each week during the preseason and has brought excitement and big-play potential to Pittsburgh's offense."
He could not write enough good things about Pickett and his potential to be a great quarterback for the Steelers:
"The rookie brings moxie, good accuracy and potent deep-shot ability. His mobility and escapability would also help him behind a questionable offensive line."
The quarterback battle is very competitive in Pittsburgh right now and the expectation is that Trubisky will win the job, but Patra is not sold on the fact that it won't be Pickett's time very soon:
"While Mitchell Trubisky seemingly remains in line to start in Week 1, coach Mike Tomlin hasn't closed the door on Pickett winning the gig. Even if Pickett's on the sideline to open the season, I'm betting on the QB getting the nod and upgrading the offense at some point this year," Patra wrote. "After all, Ben Roethlisberger didn't open his rookie season as the starter, and we know how well that went."
Tommy Maddox, who was the incumbent, helped Ben Roethlisberger with the transition of becoming a rookie starting quarterback with the Steelers in 2004. | David Maxwell/Getty Images
Chase had a dominant rookie season catching 81 passes for 1,455 yards and seven touchdowns on his way to winning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. The two play different positions, but if Pickett slips into the starting role sooner than expected, he may not lose only one game like Roethlisberger did back in 2004, but he could absolutely change the dynamic of the Steelers offense.
Is it smart to start Pickett as soon as possible and see if he has the franchise quarterback potential, or should the Steelers hold off and let Trubisky run the offense? Let us know in the comments below!
#SteelerNation
