In 2022, the Pittsburgh Steelers entered a new era without franchise quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, selecting Kenny Pickett with the 20th overall pick. However, expectations fell short as Pickett faced immense pressure in his early career, ultimately leading to his departure just two seasons later. Speaking on his podcast, Roethlisberger reflected on the challenges Pickett encountered, suggesting that a veteran mentor could have eased his transition. Despite moments of promise, including a memorable game-winning touchdown, Pickett struggled to maintain consistency, ultimately bouncing around the league. As of 2026, the Steelers still seek a franchise quarterback while Pickett embarks on a new chapter with Carolina.

By the Numbers
  • Kenny Pickett started 12 of 13 games in his rookie season.
  • In his first year, he threw for 184.9 yards per game with seven touchdowns and nine interceptions, achieving a passer rating of 76.7.
State of Play
  • The Steelers moved on from Pickett after just two seasons, indicating a lack of confidence in his ability to lead the team.
  • They currently have Mason Rudolph and rookie Will Howard on their roster, intensifying the search for a franchise quarterback.
What's Next

As Pickett begins the 2026 season with the Carolina Panthers, the Steelers will need to reassess their quarterback strategy, potentially exploring trades or drafts to secure a long-term solution.

Bottom Line

Transitioning from a franchise quarterback is challenging, and as Roethlisberger noted, several factors limited Pickett's success. The Steelers must learn from this experience in their quest for a new franchise signal-caller.