The Short Reign of Kenny Pickett: Why the Steelers Moved On After 24 Starts
The Pittsburgh Steelers' decision to move on from quarterback Kenny Pickett after just 24 starts sent shockwaves through the NFL world. Drafted in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, Pickett was seen as the heir apparent to Ben Roethlisberger's throne. So, what led the Steelers to make such a seemingly abrupt decision? Let's delve into the potential reasons behind the team's surprising move.
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Limited Production:
While Pickett displayed flashes of potential during his rookie season, his overall production fell short of expectations. The Steelers' offense struggled mightily in 2023, ranking near the bottom of the league in passing yards and touchdowns. Pickett's completion percentage was decent, but his decision-making and accuracy were inconsistent. He threw a concerning number of interceptions, raising questions about his ability to protect the football.
Offensive Line Woes:
The Steelers' offensive line, a perennial weakness, did little to help Pickett's development. Constant pressure in the pocket forced him to make hurried throws, leading to inaccuracies and turnovers. Pickett's lack of experience was further exposed when faced with constant pressure and collapsing pockets.
Coaching Concerns:
Questions have also been raised about the effectiveness of the Steelers' offensive coaching staff in developing Pickett. Some analysts believe the team's conservative scheme stifled Pickett's creativity and limited his ability to utilize his full skillset.
The Wilson Factor:
The Steelers' signing of veteran quarterback Mitchell Wilson shortly after the season ended added another layer to the story. Wilson, a proven playoff performer, brings experience and leadership qualities that the young Pickett lacked. This move suggests the Steelers prioritized immediate success and were not willing to endure growing pains with Pickett at the helm.
Pickett's Discontent:
Reports indicate that Pickett was not happy with the Steelers' decision to sign Wilson. His reported trade request suggests a lack of faith in the team's commitment to his development. This potential rift could have factored into the Steelers' decision to move on and avoid a fractured locker room.
The Search for the Next Franchise QB:
The Steelers have a long and storied tradition of success at the quarterback position. With Pickett out of the picture, the team is back on the hunt for their next franchise quarterback. Whether they opt for a veteran stopgap or target a top prospect in the upcoming draft remains to be seen.
The Final Take:
The Steelers' decision to move on from Kenny Pickett after just 24 starts is undoubtedly a bold move. While Pickett has potential, his limitations and the Steelers' desire to win now led them to explore other options. Only time will tell if the Steelers' gamble pays off and if Pickett finds success elsewhere. This situation serves as a reminder of the pressure and scrutiny young quarterbacks face in the NFL, and the high bar set for success in a franchise like Pittsburgh.