The Pittsburgh Steelers have put an end to speculation surrounding quarterback Kenny Pickett’s future with the team, affirming their intention to build around him in the upcoming season.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Pittsburgh is committed to finding out what they have in Pickett before making any decision to move off of him.
As a matter of fact, Pickett recently met with new Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith down in Florida as the two prepare for the upcoming season.
𝗥𝗨𝗠𝗢𝗥𝗦: New #Steelers OC Arthur Smith spent time with QB Kenny Pickett in South Florida and that the two had a "great" meeting, per @JFowlerESPN
“The sentiment among many here in Indy — including some with the team — was that Pickett could get another chance after a… pic.twitter.com/1vOT79VJT7
— JPAFootball (@jasrifootball) March 3, 2024
“Even as they sort out their quarterback outlook, the Steelers have started the process of rebuilding third-year passer Kenny Pickett,” Fowler reported.
“I’m told new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith recently spent time with Pickett in South Florida and that the two had a ‘great’ meeting,” he added.
Steelers fans after hearing this news: pic.twitter.com/PKbGVJe6Fz
— Database Sports Picks (@DatabasePicks) March 3, 2024
“The sentiment among many here in Indy – including some with the team – was that Pickett could get another chance after a disastrous 2023 season due in part to the offense’s overall struggles under then-OC Matt Canada … Smith should help maximize Pickett’s skill set.”
Steelers country, let’s ride pic.twitter.com/lA6vX9sSio
— panthersnfl2006 (@VGaming43) March 1, 2024
The decision to prioritize Pickett comes amidst speculation linking the Steelers to other quarterback options such as Justin Fields, Russell Wilson, and Kirk Cousins.
Owning the 20th overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, it’s possible the Steelers could select a quarterback.
While Caleb Williams, Drake Maye and Jayden Daniels are expected to be long gone before their pick, it’s possible J.J. McCarthy and/or Bo Nix would still be available (as will Michael Penix Jr).
The possibility of re-signing Mason Rudolph remains on the table as the team considers its options.
Kenny also has to stay healthy (not enough ppl are talking about his durability issues) if he wants to show he's anything more than a career backup. Worst comes to worst, ya find out Kenny isn't it, and you're in a good position to plug in a new QB in 2025 to a strong team…
— Khan SZN (@ChopChop570) March 4, 2024
Pickett, who holds a record of 14-10 as a starter in the NFL, has thrown for 4,474 yards, 13 touchdowns and 13 interceptions, while completing his passes at a 62.6% clip.
Poverty franchise
— 🜸 🪙 (@JaMarrALago) February 26, 2024
While he has flashed at times, the majority of the Steelers fan base is not too thrilled with the progress Pickett has made to this point.
I've been one of Kenny Pickett's biggest critics but I'll be rooting for him in 2024. I'm really hoping that Arthur Smith's QB friendly offensive scheme will benefit Kenny Pickett this season. pic.twitter.com/pWQYCIrIij
— Billy Hartford (@BudDupreeFan) March 3, 2024
Assuming the report is true, what are your thoughts on Pittsburgh’s plan to build around Pickett?
Do you think he can be a true franchise quarterback in the NFL? Or have you seen enough to know he’s not capable?
Would the Steelers be better off exploring a trade for a veteran quarterback (or drafting one) and starting fresh???
All I heard was Kenny Pickett and Arthur Smith https://t.co/bIIdEw4XU2 pic.twitter.com/B7B7qoUYwu
— Todd Lawson (@TLawsonII) February 29, 2024