Kenny Pickett, former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback, has departed the city where he played collegiate football and began his NFL career. And his exit did not go well with everyone. Former Steelers safety Ryan Clark stated that he expected to compete in Pittsburgh, but now he may just be a backup.
“From what I hear, Kenny Pickett actually had an opportunity to compete there,” Clark stated on the All Things Covered podcast. “And he did not want it. So now he’ll be a lifelong backup.
The reaction followed Russell Wilson’s signing. Pickett wanted to be relocated, and the Steelers agreed, sending the dissatisfied Pickett to the cross-state Philadelphia Eagles.
Pickett addressed what happened in his departure from Pittsburgh during his first press conference with the Eagles, and he believes he handled the situation well.
“I believe the communication is as it is. It was behind closed doors. “I’m confident in how I handled it,” Pickett added.
After seven years in Pittsburgh, Pickett believes it was time for a fresh start. He’ll now get to play for the team he grew up supporting in Ocean Township, New Jersey.
“I just felt it was time. “It just felt like it was time after everything that happened,” Pickett added. “I wanted to go somewhere else and advance my career. The fact that it’s in Philadelphia, where I discovered my love for the game. A terrific coaching staff and athletes. I’m looking forward to meeting these people in a few weeks when everyone returns to town. I believe it is an excellent opportunity to join this team.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin declined to comment on Pickett’s decision, saying only that he wished him luck in the future. He said the Steelers were optimistic they could land Justin Fields before making the trade that sent Pickett and two draft picks to Philadelphia for the No. 98 pick this year and two 2025 seventh-round picks.
Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni talked about Pickett and what he would be expected to perform for the team, which is primarily a backup role.
“I’m quite enthused about what he can do. I’m thrilled that we have a piece in place there. But his role is to be Jalen’s backup, to support him in any way he can, and to be ready to play if he is called upon,” Sirianni explained.
Pickett has little chance of replacing Jalen Hurts in Philadelphia. But he will get a fresh start in his career, which is exactly what he thought he needed after his time in Pittsburgh ended.
