Kenny Pickett’s time as the Pittsburgh Steelers’ starting quarterback has been a rollercoaster ride. Drafted with the 20th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, Pickett was viewed as the heir to Ben Roethlisberger — the quarterback tasked with leading the Steelers into a new era. Now, after two seasons filled with inconsistent performances, injuries, and questions about his ceiling, Pickett faces a pivotal moment in his career.
The Steelers’ front office and coaching staff have stood by Pickett through his struggles, but as the 2025 season approaches, the pressure is mounting. Can Pickett finally establish himself as a top-tier NFL quarterback, or will the Steelers be forced to look elsewhere for their future signal-caller?
Pickett’s Journey to the NFL
Kenny Pickett’s path to becoming the Steelers’ starting quarterback was a story of patience and development. He played five seasons at the University of Pittsburgh, where he steadily improved each year before breaking out in his senior season.
In 2021, Pickett threw for 4,319 yards and 42 touchdowns while leading Pitt to an ACC Championship. His strong pocket presence, quick decision-making, and mobility made him one of the top quarterback prospects in the 2022 draft.
Despite being the first quarterback selected in the 2022 draft, Pickett was seen more as a safe, high-floor pick rather than a player with elite upside. Still, the Steelers believed that his leadership, accuracy, and experience would make him a solid starter in the NFL.
A Rocky Start in Pittsburgh
Pickett took over as the Steelers’ starter midway through his rookie season after Mitch Trubisky struggled in the early games. While he showed flashes of promise, his overall rookie campaign was uneven.
In 13 games (12 starts) during the 2022 season, Pickett threw for 2,404 yards, 7 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions. His ability to make plays with his legs and his poise under pressure were encouraging, but the lack of production in the passing game raised concerns.
One of Pickett’s standout moments as a rookie came in Week 17 against the Baltimore Ravens, when he led a game-winning drive capped by a touchdown pass to Najee Harris with less than a minute remaining. It was the type of clutch performance that suggested Pickett had the potential to grow into a franchise quarterback.
“I’ve always believed in Kenny,” head coach Mike Tomlin said after the game. “He’s got the mental toughness and the work ethic to succeed in this league.”
Sophomore Struggles and Injury Setbacks
Expectations were high for Pickett entering the 2023 season, but his second year in the league was marred by inconsistency and injuries. He started 12 games, throwing for 2,070 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions before suffering an ankle injury in Week 13 that sidelined him for the rest of the season.
The Steelers’ offense under offensive coordinator Matt Canada struggled to find a rhythm all year. The passing game lacked explosiveness, and Pickett’s tendency to check down or hold onto the ball too long limited the team’s ability to sustain drives.
Canada’s conservative play-calling was heavily criticized, and after a disappointing offensive performance in Week 11 against the Cleveland Browns, Canada was fired.
Quarterbacks coach Mike Sullivan and running backs coach Eddie Faulkner took over play-calling duties, but the offense showed only slight improvement down the stretch.
Despite Pickett’s struggles, the Steelers managed to finish the season with a 9-8 record, narrowly missing the playoffs. Backup quarterback Mason Rudolph started the final four games of the season and outperformed Pickett statistically — raising questions about whether Pickett should remain the starter.
What’s Holding Pickett Back?
Several factors have contributed to Pickett’s lack of progress through his first two seasons:
✅ Injuries – Pickett has dealt with concussions, a knee sprain, and an ankle injury in his first two seasons. Staying healthy has been a challenge, and the lack of continuity has prevented him from building chemistry with his receivers.
✅ Offensive Line Struggles – The Steelers’ offensive line has been shaky at best. Pickett has often faced heavy pressure, leading to rushed throws and breakdowns in timing with his receivers.
✅ Conservative Play-Calling – Under Matt Canada, the Steelers’ offense relied heavily on short passes and quick throws, limiting Pickett’s ability to push the ball downfield. Without the threat of a deep passing game, defenses have been able to key in on the run and short passing game.
✅ Lack of Confidence – Pickett’s body language and decision-making have reflected a lack of confidence at times. He’s been hesitant to make throws into tight windows and has struggled with pocket awareness.
What’s Changing in 2025?
The Steelers made significant changes this offseason to give Pickett a better chance to succeed.
- New Offensive Coordinator – The Steelers hired former Philadelphia Eagles quarterbacks coach Brian Johnson as their new offensive coordinator. Johnson helped Jalen Hurts develop into an MVP-caliber quarterback, and the Steelers are hoping he can have a similar effect on Pickett.
- Improved Offensive Line – The Steelers signed veteran guard Connor Williams and drafted left tackle Olu Fashanu with the 12th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Strengthening the offensive line should give Pickett more time in the pocket and help open up the running game.
- New Weapons – The Steelers acquired wide receiver Calvin Ridley in a trade with the Jacksonville Jaguars, adding a proven deep threat to the passing game. Pairing Ridley with George Pickens and tight end Pat Freiermuth gives Pickett a more complete set of targets.
Pickett’s Mentality Heading Into 2025
Pickett has been vocal about his desire to improve and prove himself as the Steelers’ long-term answer at quarterback.
“I know I haven’t played up to my potential yet,” Pickett said in a recent interview. “But I’ve learned from the setbacks, and I’m working harder than ever to get better. The team believes in me, and I believe in myself.”
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has also voiced his confidence in Pickett.
“Kenny is our guy,” Tomlin said. “He’s got the tools, the intelligence, and the toughness to be a successful quarterback in this league. Now it’s about putting it all together.”
What Success Would Look Like in 2025
For Pickett to solidify his status as the Steelers’ franchise quarterback, he’ll need to take a significant step forward in several areas:
- Increased Touchdown Production – Pickett has thrown only 13 career touchdown passes in two seasons — that number needs to rise significantly in 2025.
- Deep Ball Improvement – Expanding the passing game and creating big plays will open up the offense and make life easier for the running game.
- Limiting Turnovers – Pickett has shown good decision-making, but improving his pocket awareness and cutting down on sacks and fumbles will be key.
- Winning Games – Ultimately, success will be judged by wins and playoff appearances. Leading the Steelers to the postseason would cement Pickett’s place as the future of the franchise.
Conclusion
Kenny Pickett’s future with the Steelers hangs in the balance heading into the 2025 season. With a new offensive coordinator, improved offensive line, and better weapons at his disposal, Pickett will have every opportunity to succeed.
The Steelers have built a team designed to support their young quarterback — now it’s up to Pickett to deliver. If he can take a leap forward and lead the Steelers back to the playoffs, he could solidify his role as the team’s long-term answer at quarterback. If not, the Steelers may be forced to explore other options in the 2026 draft or free agency.
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