JUST IN> How Kenny Pickett’s terrible football performance appeases Steelers supporters

The Philadelphia Eagles acquired the 2022 first-round quarterback from Omar Khan this offseason, and many fans wondered if it was the proper move given his lackluster performances in his first two seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Already, the decision is being supported.

Some supporters thought that with a fresh start and a stronger roster in the Eagles, Pickett, entering his third season, would live up to expectations. That hasn’t happened.

Pickett has struggled in his first two 2024 preseason games. In his debut preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens, Pickett managed just 89 passing yards on 22 throws. This translated to a pitiful 4.0 yards per try.

However, things worsen.

Pickett revealed his true nature and provided evidence that he will never be a successful franchise quarterback in his second preseason game. Warren Sharp reports that Pickett took four sacks and completed only 0.7 air yards per completion on 11 throws in the first half against the New England Patriots.

Pickett had to put up a strong comeback to hold Tanner McKee, the third-string quarterback, at bay. Rather, the first-round selection plummeted as McKee finished 15 of 19 passes for 140 yards and a 97.4 passing rating. It’s easy to understand why there are now whispers circulating that Pickett might be dropped to the Eagles’ third-string quarterback position.

Kenny Pickett’s attempt was wisely ended by the Steelers.

When Kenny Pickett was chosen by the Pittsburgh Steelers with the 20th overall choice in the 2022 NFL Draft, I was quite clear that I did not like him. Small hands, a lackluster year of college productivity, and a dubious ability to read defenses made Pickett my fifth-rated quarterback in a weak quarterback class.

I think Omar Khan did the best he could by moving Pickett to the Eagles in the 2024 offseason, but I also think Kevin Colbert and Mike Tomlin completely undervalued the talent.

The Eagles’ compensatory third-round selection was given to the Steelers in lieu of Pickett. Payton Wilson, an All-American linebacker, was the result of this selection. Despite not having shown much in the NFL, Wilson had a great rookie training camp and frequently shows flashes of his playmaking ability on film.

The Steelers were smart to cut their ties with Kenny Pickett prior to Wilson’s third season, even if he never develops into a great NFL player. It would be a miracle for the former Pitt quarterback if he stays as Philadelphia’s third-string quarterback right now.

Fans of the Steelers who were unsure about trading Pickett have now entirely changed their views and may relax. As of now, Pittsburgh’s first-round pick in 2022 appears to be even less of a franchise quarterback on his second team.

DAVESPORTSCOMPLEX.COM