The speculation ended about when the first quarterback would be taken when the Steelers tabbed Kenny Pickett with the 20th overall selection. There is the obvious great storyline of Pickett trading a Pittsburgh Panthers uniform for a Pittsburgh Steelers one. It’s a feel-good tale, but from fantasy perspectives, Pickett only moves the needle in superflex and two-QB leagues.
We can’t be sure if Pickett will start early in his career, either, as he may sit behind Mitchell Trubisky in his rookie campaign. Pickett was widely considered the most pro-ready of the 2022 NFL rookie quarterbacks, but he could benefit from watching and learning for a season, too.
Kenny Pickett NFL Draft Outlook
The Steelers now turn to Pickett as the eventual successor to Ben Roethlisberger. Trubisky appears to be confirmed as a “bridge” quarterback. It’s just a matter of time before Pickett starts, and he’s going to get a lot of fan backing to quickly unseat Trubisky as a local college hero.
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Pickett may get to battle for the job in training camp. But even if he does not start right away, he can eventually settle in as a quality NFL starter. Pickett was hailed as the best QB in an uninspiring 2022 class that lacks star talent. But he has a good shot to emerge as a very respectable passer for the Steelers.
Pickett has elicited comparisons to Matt Hasselbeck and Andy Dalton in his better years. He is more mobile than both of those passers, and can adequately fit the bill for Pittsburgh at some point.
Kenny Pickett Fantasy Football QB Tips
If Pickett can beat out Trubisky to start early in his career, he could become a later pick at QB in seasonal superflex and two-QB formats. He will have more dynasty appeal as a decent second QB in those types of leagues. Pickett may not prove to be more than an eventual top 20 QB in seasonal leagues, and expecting him to be a top 15 guy may be pushing it.
Pickett can ensure that Diontae Johnson remains a steady fantasy producer, and he should work well with Pat Freiermuth. He will not be afraid to throw 50/50 balls to Chase Claypool. The Steelers’ pass-catchers can have solid floors working with Pickett.
Kenny Pickett Scouting Report
Strengths
- Has ideal size and a strong arm
- May be the most pro-ready QB of all the rookies
- Mobile playmaker who will know when to take off and challenge the defense as a runner.
- Can operate very efficiently with a good supporting cast, which he will have with the Steelers.
Weaknesses
- Can sometimes seem nervous under pressure and footwork will get shaky.
- Must refine his timing and placement, especially downfield.
- Might force throws when they are not there. Turnovers could be an early issue at the pro level.
- Small hands have been the obvious narrative.
