Deal Done: Kenny Pickett is Expected to be the Steelers’ Starting Quarterback
The Pittsburgh Steelers are in a transition phase, a process that began when they moved on from long-time franchise quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. After 18 seasons, Roethlisberger left a massive void both in the locker room and on the field. While the Steelers enjoyed success during his tenure, winning two Super Bowls and consistently competing for playoff spots, the search for the next great quarterback was inevitable. Now, with the expected promotion of Kenny Pickett to the starting role, the Steelers have the opportunity to build a new era, one that blends both hope and uncertainty.
The Road to the Starting Job
Kenny Pickett’s rise to the starting quarterback role has been a story of promise, growth, and opportunity. As a native of the Pittsburgh area, Pickett was already a familiar name when he entered the NFL Draft in 2022. His collegiate career at the University of Pittsburgh, where he was the ACC Player of the Year and a Heisman Trophy finalist in his final season, set the stage for his entry into the professional ranks. Although Pickett had a standout college career, questions about his ability to transition to the NFL lingered—questions that would soon be answered.
Pickett was selected by the Steelers with the 20th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, making him the first quarterback taken by the franchise in the first round since Roethlisberger in 2004. The decision to draft Pickett was not only a statement about his individual talent but also about the direction in which the team was heading. With Roethlisberger’s retirement, the Steelers were no longer a Super Bowl contender with an established quarterback but instead needed to develop a new leader to build around.
Initially, the Steelers planned to let Pickett sit behind Mitch Trubisky, who was signed in the offseason as a bridge quarterback, while also keeping veteran backup Mason Rudolph on the roster. However, Pickett’s development accelerated during training camp and the preseason, and his performance was enough to convince the coaching staff that he deserved an opportunity to play sooner rather than later.
The Decision to Start Pickett
By Week 4 of the 2022 season, after the Steelers had gotten off to a 1-2 start with Trubisky under center, head coach Mike Tomlin made the decision to give Pickett his first NFL action. It wasn’t long before Pickett was thrust into the starting role after a poor performance by Trubisky in a Week 4 loss to the New York Jets.
Pickett’s debut came with mixed results: although he showed flashes of his potential, he also displayed the growing pains that come with being a rookie quarterback. Over the course of his first few starts, Pickett demonstrated his mobility, his ability to make accurate throws, and his leadership on the field. However, he also struggled with consistency, particularly with turnovers, and he was unable to lead the team to victories consistently.
Despite these ups and downs, the Steelers organization never wavered in their belief that Pickett was the future of the franchise. In fact, the growing pains were viewed as part of the process. Tomlin and the coaching staff continued to support Pickett, giving him the time he needed to adjust to the speed and complexity of the NFL. In doing so, they allowed him to develop and grow without the intense pressure of looking for immediate success.
What Makes Pickett the Right Choice for the Steelers?
As the 2023 season rolls on, it has become clear that Kenny Pickett is the quarterback the Steelers are ready to build around. But what makes Pickett the right choice for the job? Why is he considered the future of the Steelers’ offense, even after a relatively shaky start to his career?
1.The “It” Factor
One of the most talked-about qualities of Pickett as a prospect, and something that has only grown over the course of his young career, is his “it” factor. Pickett exudes confidence and composure, both in the huddle and under pressure. The ability to lead with poise, especially in critical moments, is a quality that’s often difficult to teach. While Pickett has had his share of rookie mistakes, he’s also demonstrated a mental toughness and maturity that suggests he has the leadership qualities necessary for success in Pittsburgh.
2.Mobility and Arm Strength
While Pickett may not have the strongest arm in the league, he has the ability to make all the necessary throws. He has a quick release, accuracy on short-to-medium throws, and the ability to stretch the field vertically when needed. Additionally, Pickett’s mobility—particularly his ability to extend plays with his legs—has proven to be an asset. In today’s NFL, where quarterbacks are often asked to make plays outside the pocket, Pickett’s movement ability gives him a dimension that many traditional pocket passers lack. The Steelers’ offensive line struggles at times to protect their quarterbacks, so Pickett’s ability to avoid sacks and scramble for positive yards gives the team an extra weapon.
3.Poise Under Pressure
While Pickett’s rookie season was filled with ups and downs, one of the standout features of his play was his poise in late-game situations. In particular, he showed an ability to lead the team to late-game comebacks, including several game-winning drives. In a franchise that has historically valued defense and the ability to win close, low-scoring games, Pickett’s ability to thrive in crunch-time moments fits well with the Steelers’ culture.
4.Work Ethic and Desire to Improve
There is no questioning Pickett’s work ethic. From his commitment to studying film to his constant effort to refine his mechanics and develop chemistry with his receivers, he has done everything asked of him. Unlike some quarterbacks who rest on their natural talent, Pickett’s drive to improve at every level has been evident. The Steelers’ coaching staff, led by Mike Tomlin and offensive coordinator Matt Canada, have noted his willingness to put in extra work, even after a difficult performance.
5.Long-Term Vision and Stability
The Steelers are in a unique position in that they have the opportunity to grow with a young quarterback. Unlike other teams that may have struggled to find stability at the position, Pittsburgh is now able to invest in Pickett as their long-term answer. This provides the team with a sense of direction and allows them to build a roster that complements his skill set, whether through improving the offensive line, developing a stable group of receivers, or refining the running game.
The Challenges Ahead
While the decision to make Pickett the starter is clear, the road ahead won’t be without its challenges. The Steelers’ offense has often been criticized for its lack of explosiveness, with a conservative play-calling approach that sometimes limits the potential of their young quarterback. For Pickett to reach his full potential, the coaching staff must find ways to open up the offense, allowing him to take more chances downfield and maximize the weapons around him.
Furthermore, the offensive line remains a key concern. Although the Steelers have made efforts to improve the line in recent years, Pickett’s success is still dependent on how well he is protected. If he’s under constant pressure, it will be difficult for him to develop the rhythm needed to succeed at the highest level.
The Steelers’ receiving corps also remains a question mark. While there is talent in players like Diontae Johnson, George Pickens, and Pat Freiermuth, the lack of an elite playmaker on the outside has sometimes hindered the offense. Pickett will need his wide receivers to step up and provide him with consistent separation and reliable hands.
Looking Ahead
The expectation for Pickett as the Steelers’ starting quarterback is more than just about his individual development; it is a reflection of the team’s broader vision. The Steelers, a franchise steeped in tradition, are once again poised to build around a young quarterback with the potential to lead them back to prominence. With the right coaching, support, and system in place, Kenny Pickett can become the next great quarterback in Pittsburgh, following in the footsteps of legends like Roethlisberger, Terry Bradshaw, and others.
As the 2023 season progresses, all eyes will be on Pickett to see how he handles the pressure of being the franchise’s new leader. The road may not always be smooth, but for Steelers fans, the journey is one of hope and excitement. With Kenny Pickett at the helm, the Steelers are ready to turn the page to a new chapter and embrace the future of Pittsburgh football.
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