December 1, 2023

Kenny Pickett's Sophomore Strides and Stumbles with the Steelers

Kenny Pickett's Sophomore Season: A Mixed Bag of Promise and Inconsistency

As the Pittsburgh Steelers navigate through the current NFL season, all eyes remain on second-year quarterback Kenny Pickett. His sophomore campaign has been a rollercoaster ride, filled with moments that hint at potential greatness, yet marred by a lack of consistency that often plagues young quarterbacks. In a recent clash with the Baltimore Ravens, Pickett demonstrated his clutch ability by completing a critical pass under pressure. Offensive coordinator Mike Sullivan praised his resilience, noting, "He hung in there and was able to get that ball off just in the nick of time before [Hamilton] got to him to hit A-Rob near our sideline. That was a big conversion." This play encapsulates the promise Pickett showed in the preseason, where he turned heads with his poise and decision-making. However, despite these glimpses of talent, Pickett's overall metrics have dipped since his rookie year. Both his Total Quarterback Rating and completion percentage have seen a decline, prompting critics to scrutinize the Steelers' offensive strategy. The receiving corps' struggles haven't helped, but there's hope with Diontae Johnson expected to make a return from injury soon. Pickett himself acknowledges the importance of synergy within the team, stating, "It's things like routes and timing and spacing, it all works together. So that's always the key in the passing game, everything working together -- protection, and guys are on the right routes, and I got to put the ball where it needs to be. So we got to get right in those three phases and expect those numbers to go up."

Leadership Under Pressure

Despite the statistical ebb, Pickett has shown an uncanny ability to perform when the stakes are highest. Over 17 starts, he has led the team to five game-winning drives and four fourth-quarter comebacks. His completion percentage in these high-pressure final drives has notably improved over the year, painting a picture of a player who thrives under pressure. Mike Sullivan has commended Pickett's demeanor during these tense moments, saying, "The thing that we're most pleased with is when the game is on the line ... there is a calm, there's a poise, there's a confidence that he has." This trait is invaluable in a league where games are frequently decided in the dying seconds.

Learning Curve

Kurt Warner, a former NFL quarterback and analyst, pointed out the steep learning curve Pickett faced as a rookie. "Kind of the crazy thing is that -- and I think we saw it last year as a rookie -- he was having a little trouble identifying stuff and kind of getting to the right spot early in the process," Warner observed. Yet, Warner remains optimistic, reflecting on Pickett's preseason performances as evidence of his capability to adapt and improve. Pickett himself is aware of the journey ahead and the need for growth, aiming for reliability and consistent performance. "I want to be consistently good, continue to be the guy that these guys can rely on," he asserts, indicating his commitment to personal development and team success.

The Return of Diontae Johnson

The anticipated return of Diontae Johnson is set to provide a boost to the Steelers' offense. Pickett has expressed excitement about reconnecting with his talented receiver, highlighting Johnson's exceptional route running and ability to create separation. "Each guy does different things really well, and Diontae brings another element with his route running. His ability to get separation and get open is awesome," Pickett remarked.

Looking Forward

As the Steelers continue their quest for a successful season, the development of Kenny Pickett remains a central narrative. His ability to lead game-winning drives has already endeared him to fans and teammates alike, suggesting that he possesses the intangibles required of a franchise quarterback. While the road ahead may still present challenges, the belief within the organization remains strong. Warner encapsulated this sentiment, harking back to Pickett's preseason form, "When you're with an organization, you hold on to all the positive things that you see. You go back to the preseason and go, 'OK, I saw him do it. I saw him recognize it. I saw him get to the right guy. I saw him go get touchdowns on every drive they had.'" With a blend of resilience, leadership qualities, and a willingness to learn, Kenny Pickett stands at the precipice of what could be a defining season in his young career. How he navigates the highs and lows will not only shape his trajectory but also the fortunes of the storied Pittsburgh Steelers franchise.