When Ben Roethlisberger retired, the Pittsburgh Steelers believed they immediately drafted his heir in Kenny Pickett. After spending his entire college career at the University of Pittsburgh, Pickett seemed to be a perfect fit for the Steelers, who trusted him greatly due to his familiarity with their game. However, while his first season was promising, his second year felt more like a step back than a step forward. Pickett, who was dealing with injuries and was ultimately benched in favor of Mason Rudolph, struggled in 2023. After the Steelers signed Russell Wilson this offseason, Pickett asked for a trade. However, it seems that there is not much bad blood on the part of at least one of his former teammates.
With Roethlisberger out, Cam Heyward is the Steelers’ leader, even with his current contract situation. Heyward has been a captain for several years and his voice means something in the Steelers locker room. Recently, he was answering questions from fans on Twitter, and one user asked him to reveal the truth behind Pickett’s departure. Obviously Heyward didn’t do that, but he did have some encouraging words for the former Steelers quarterback.
“Kenny is with the Eagles and the future remains bright,” Heyward wrote.
Kenny is with the Eagles and the future remains bright.
– Cam Heyward (@CamHeyward) June 20, 2024
Heyward would have every right to be upset with Pickett for requesting a trade, but he understands that the NFL is a business. Pickett wasn’t dealt the best hand in Pittsburgh, and many of his problems may not have all been his fault. Matt Canada’s scheme would have been difficult for any quarterback to thrive in, especially with the poor offensive line play that also existed. Getting hit and not receiving support from the Steelers play caller would upset anyone.
The Steelers will see Pickett when they play the Philadelphia Eagles this season, although he should not play unless current Eagles starting quarterback Jalen Hurts is injured. However, nothing is guaranteed in the NFL, so it’s not unlikely that Pickett could be playing when that game comes around. If he does it, it seems like there won’t be much anger, at least from the Steelers’ perspective if everyone feels the same way as Heyward.
Pickett didn’t work with the Steelers, but his career isn’t over yet. He has a chance to prove the Steelers wrong by rebuilding his value with the Eagles, who have one of the best rosters in the league. While the Steelers’ offensive line was a major hole in their offense, the Eagles have one of the best offensive lines in football, along with a group of great playmakers. If Pickett sees starting time in Philadelphia, he might prove Heyward right and show why he could still be a starting quarterback.
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