In recent years, NFL quarterbacks drafted high have often revitalized their careers after moving to a second, third, or even fourth team. This summer, the Cleveland Browns are on the lookout for a new starting quarterback, which might present a fresh opportunity for Kenny Pickett, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 22nd overall pick in the 2022 draft. Entering training camp this month, Pickett is one of four quarterbacks added by the Browns this offseason competing for the starting role, along with Joe Flacco and rookies Dilongabriel and Chedure Sanders.
Last season, the Browns made a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles to acquire Pickett, giving up the Eagles’ fifth overall pick and quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson in return. Pickett spent the previous year backing up Jalen Hurts, the Super Bowl-winning quarterback, in Philadelphia. Browns General Manager Andrew Berry revealed they targeted Pickett early in the offseason, appreciating his decision-making, mobility, and ball protection skills, which align well with the Browns’ offense strategy for next year.
At 27 years old, Pickett posted a 14-10 record as a starter during his two seasons with the Steelers, but with a balanced 13 touchdowns and 13 interceptions, he didn’t fully convince Pittsburgh he was their long-term solution. After the Steelers signed Russell Wilson in 2024, Pickett requested a trade, which the team honored. Though he started only one game with the Eagles, Pickett found his time there valuable for understanding what it takes to succeed daily, not just during games.
During offseason training, coach Kevin Stefanski gave Pickett significant practice reps alongside fellow quarterbacks, allowing him to build strong chemistry with top receiver Jerry Judy. The Browns plan to return to Stefanski’s preferred offensive scheme, which resembles Philadelphia’s style and plays to players like Saquon Barkley’s dual-threat ability. Pickett noted the main challenge is learning new terminology since the concepts are quite similar.
Stefanski praised Pickett’s toughness, work ethic, and skill set, emphasizing the excitement about his potential to contribute to the team. This pattern of quarterbacks rebooting their careers with new teams is not uncommon — examples include Sam Darnold, who flourished with the Vikings after being traded from the Jets, Geno Smith’s resurgence with the Seahawks, and Baker Mayfield’s success in Tampa Bay after leaving Cleveland.
The Browns declined Pickett’s fifth-year option, valued at $22 million, making this season crucial for his future. With a $2.6 million fully guaranteed salary and impending free agency in 2026, Pickett is positioned as a strong contender for the starting spot, aiming to revive his career. Pickett expressed determination to seize this opportunity, motivated by working with experienced quarterback Geno Smith in the offseason.
Fan Take: Kenny Pickett’s journey highlights the NFL’s ever-evolving quarterback landscape, where initial setbacks don’t define a player’s career. For fans, Pickett’s potential breakout with the Browns represents the thrilling possibility of a fresh start leading to success, proving that perseverance and the right environment can change everything in professional football.
