The Story Behind Moving on from Kenny Pickett After 24 Starts

A New Chapter in Pittsburgh The Departure of Kenny Pickett

PITTSBURGH — It took six hundred and eighty-seven long days from the moment Kenny Pickett was chosen with the 20th pick in the draft for his journey with the team to come to an unexpected end. Introduced by owner Art Rooney II on April 29, 2022, as the prodigious talent who eclipsed all of Dan Marino’s college records, Pickett was seen as a beacon of hope for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Yet, the narrative took a dramatic turn as he was traded to Philadelphia, a move reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. This development came shortly after the Steelers rolled out the welcome mat for Russell Wilson, signifying a pivotal shift within the organization.

The trade of Pickett might seem at first glance like a stark departure from the Steelers’ traditional and loyal approach. However, it more accurately reflects a reaffirmation of the franchise’s foundational principles. Moreover, it represents a candid acknowledgment of a misstep by the organization.

Pickett’s tenure with the Steelers was constrained by expectations that overshadowed his actual performance and by decision-makers who hesitated until it was too late. The quarterback’s request for a trade, spurred by dissatisfaction with Wilson’s acquisition, marked the conclusion of a chapter that perhaps was doomed from the start.

The crux of the issue, however, does not rest solely on Pickett’s shoulders. Instead, it lies in the Steelers’ failure to craft a coherent strategy for the post-Ben Roethlisberger era. Caught in an attempt to recapture former glories, the Steelers neglected to secure their future, hoping instead to correct past errors and cling to bygone triumphs.

Now, two years following Roethlisberger’s much-anticipated retirement, the Steelers find themselves at a crossroads, confronting the reality they sought to avoid. They stand at what is almost the beginning again, forced to reckon with the challenges of building anew in the competitive landscape of the NFL.

A New Chapter Steelers’ Quarterback Strategy

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a strategic move by signing Wilson, a seasoned quarterback, as a bridge to the future. Despite being 35, Wilson proved his worth with a strong performance last season, highlighting his capability to lead the team during a transition period. This decision reflects a shift in strategy, aiming to stabilize the quarterback position without a complete overhaul.

Previously, the Steelers had missed opportunities to strengthen their quarterback roster in anticipation of weaker draft classes. The acquisition of Mitch Trubisky, followed by the selection of Pickett, revealed a lack of long-term planning. The team’s reluctance to invest heavily in the quarterback position since drafting Mason Rudolph in 2018 also contributed to their predicament. However, with Roethlisberger’s retirement in 2022 marking the end of an era, the Steelers are now navigating towards rebuilding their team with strategic foresight.

Steelers’ Quarterback Conundrum A Tale of Missed Opportunities

In the twilight of Ben Roethlisberger’s career, the Steelers entrusted him with significant influence over its direction. Yet, when Roethlisberger eventually retired, the team found itself with only two quarterbacks: Rudolph and the highly touted Dwayne Haskins. Adding to the mix, Trubisky was signed in March 2022. Tragically, Haskins, who displayed promise in a fresh start after a stint with Washington, passed away just a month later.

The potential solution seemed clear: draft another quarterback. Trubisky could have served as a bridge starter while nurturing a rookie talent behind the scenes, reminiscent of Patrick Mahomes’ development behind Alex Smith. However, investing a precious first-round pick in Trubisky, a local hero, diminished his chances from the start.

The fervent calls for Pickett began early, echoing through training camp at St. Vincent College. Just four weeks into the season, Tomlin made the decisive move, benching Trubisky for Pickett at halftime, marking the rookie’s debut as a starting quarterback. Pickett showcased flashes of brilliance, orchestrating three fourth-quarter comebacks and displaying the grit and intangibles that hinted at potential success. Yet, the preseason hype quickly fizzled out, leaving Pickett on the sidelines while Rudolph took the reins for a playoff game, symbolizing the missed opportunities and uncertainties surrounding the Steelers’ quarterback saga.

Steelers’ Path Forward: Embracing Change

Amidst the recent departure of their former first-round quarterback, the Steelers find themselves at a crossroads, with an enticing opportunity to redefine their future. The trade of Pickett has not only opened up possibilities but also removed any lingering constraints from the past.

Enter Justin Fields, the Chicago Bears’ quarterback, now a viable option for Pittsburgh—a scenario once deemed improbable. With the departure of Pickett, the Steelers can now pursue Fields without reservation, signaling a bold shift in direction.

Under the stewardship of general manager Omar Khan, the Steelers have displayed a willingness to depart from tradition. Khan’s tenure has seen daring moves, including high-profile free agent signings and strategic trades. Despite outward displays of support for Pickett, Khan has made it clear that the quarterback position will face robust competition.

In Indianapolis, Khan hinted at exploring all avenues to enhance the team, even amidst speculation about potential free agent signings and blockbuster trades. His commitment to improving the Steelers’ fortunes underscores a proactive approach to team-building. As the Steelers forge ahead, they embrace change with optimism, fueled by the promise of a new era under center.