The Pittsburgh Steelers used their 2022 first-round draft pick on Kenny Pickett, a widely debated quarterback prospect.
Pickett finished his rookie season with a total of 2,404 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and nine interceptions, which came in 12 starts.
Despite not having a banner year, there’s growing optimism around the league that Pickett is in line for a much better season in 2023.
In a recent segment on NFL Total Access, Brian Baldinger broke down Pickett’s endgame for the 2022 season, especially in regards to the Steelers’ game against the Baltimore Ravens.
While detailing a crucial pitch by Pickett in this game, Baldinger said, “When he steps in on this pitch, he breaks the string, that’s how you have to play the game.”
“The way the season ended was really remarkable.”@BaldyNFL gives a breakdown of Kenny Pickett heading into year 2️⃣ (via @NFLTotalAccess) pic.twitter.com/p3g5543DuU
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) June 28, 2023
As Baldinger points out, he was impressed with Pickett’s ability to step up at a big moment and throw a fantastic pitch.
This led to the Steelers coming back in this game, beating the Ravens, 16-13.
The Steelers finished the 2022 season on a four-game winning streak.
In those four games, Baldinger believed Pickett “really claimed that job.”
Will Pickett be able to take the step many expect him to this season?
The AFC North isn’t exactly an easy division for a new quarterback to enter.
Joe Burrow has led the Cincinnati Bengals to back-to-back AFC Championship Games, and Lamar Jackson is also gearing up for a great season for the Baltimore Ravens.
Plus, Deshaun Watson and the Cleveland Browns aren’t going down without a fight.
Pickett has a lot of work ahead of him this season.
However, if he’s able to get the Steelers back to the playoffs, public opinion could quickly swing his way.
NEXT:
Cam Heyward reveals his honest thoughts on Kenny Pickett
