The seismic impact of the Steelers’ acquisition of Russell Wilson reverberated throughout Pittsburgh, triggering a paradigm shift in the team’s quarterback landscape and signaling the denouement of Kenny Pickett’s stint with the franchise. Wilson’s arrival injected a potent dose of anticipation and excitement into the Steelers’ fanbase, as they eagerly await the unfolding of a new era under his leadership.
Pickett’s departure, while bittersweet, symbolizes the inexorable march of change in professional sports, as teams relentlessly pursue the elusive goal of championship contention. His contributions, albeit finite, will be remembered as part of the Steelers’ rich tapestry, while Wilson’s arrival ushers in a fresh chapter ripe with promise and potential.
Reports indicate that the Steelers are set to trade Pickett along with a fourth-round draft pick to the Philadelphia Eagles. In return, Pittsburgh will receive a third-round pick and the Eagles’ highest two seventh-round draft picks. Pickett’s desire for a trade surfaced after learning about Wilson’s signing through social media and being informed by Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin that Wilson would be given priority as the starting quarterback, sidelining Pickett’s aspirations for the QB1 role.
Pickett’s journey with the Steelers began with high hopes following his stellar college career at the University of Pittsburgh. However, despite being the 20th-overall pick in the 2022 draft, his transition to the NFL didn’t unfold as expected. Initially serving as a backup to Mitchell Trubisky, Pickett was thrust into action in Week 4 due to Trubisky’s struggles. Despite earning the starting role for a significant portion of the 2023 season, Pickett faced challenges in maintaining consistency and battling injuries, which impacted his performance and availability.
Steelers trading QB Kenny Pickett to Eagles, clearing way for Russell Wilson to start https://t.co/xXkgFLpQRw #Steelers pic.twitter.com/wz9O9Spa5q
— Steelers Depot 7⃣ (@Steelersdepot) March 15, 2024
The turning point came when Tomlin opted to start veteran backup Mason Rudolph over Pickett towards the end of the 2023 season, leading the Steelers to an unexpected playoff berth. With uncertainty looming over the quarterback situation, the Steelers made a bold move by signing Wilson in March, signaling the end of Pickett’s time in Pittsburgh.
While Pickett won’t find a starting opportunity in Philadelphia, where Jalen Hurts firmly holds the QB1 position, he now has the chance to learn and grow alongside Hurts and the Eagles coaching staff. Pickett’s struggles in Pittsburgh were compounded by the upheaval in offensive coordination, particularly under Matt Canada, whose shortcomings as a play-caller led to widespread frustration among Steelers fans and his eventual dismissal in 2024. Although Pickett showed glimpses of improvement post-Canada, his inability to stay on the field hindered his ability to fully demonstrate his potential.
As the Steelers gear up for the 2024 season with Wilson leading the charge, Pickett will transition to a new chapter in Philadelphia, aiming to absorb knowledge and contribute to the Eagles’ quest for success under head coach Nick Sirianni.
The Steelers’ acquisition of Russell Wilson reshaped the quarterback landscape in Pittsburgh, leading to the inevitable departure of Kenny Pickett. Learning about Wilson’s signing via social media and subsequent confirmation from Coach Mike Tomlin marked a turning point for Pickett, who sought a trade to pursue starting opportunities elsewhere. Despite high expectations following his college success, Pickett’s NFL journey faced hurdles, including inconsistent performances and injuries. With Wilson taking the reins, Pickett’s trade to the Eagles offers a fresh start. While he won’t start immediately, joining Philadelphia provides a chance for growth and development under Jalen Hurts and Coach Nick Sirianni’s guidance.
