The Pittsburgh Steelers have their future quarterback in Kenny Pickett, or at least the front office believes so. In 2022, he showed a natural confidence that’s uncanny for a rookie. He had some big shoes to fill in the form of future Hall of Famer Ben Roethlisberger, but he wasn’t shy when stepping onto the field. Pickett will enter 2023 as the starter with expectations to take a step forward in Year 2.
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Steelers' Kenny Pickett (#8) runs for a first down against the New York Jets in Pittsburgh, PA.
Over the years, the NFL’s elite teams have been able to adopt similar winning strategies: take advantage of your star QB on a rookie contract. It allows the allocation of money elsewhere, loading up the roster in the trenches and at the skill positions. Via Mark Kaboly of The Athletic, Steelers general manager Omar Khan plans on using that same strategy as he spoke to reporters at the 2023 NFL Combine on Tuesday:
“Obviously, we have a starting quarterback on a rookie contract, and some opportunities come with that.”
Most recently, the Cincinnati Bengals, Kansas City Chiefs, and Buffalo Bills have all taken advantage of their superstars being on rookie deals. It hasn't led to Super Bowl victories for all of them, but the three have become the dominant teams in the AFC. To do this, it’s important for the quarterback to hit the ground running pretty quickly. While Patrick Mahomes mostly sat out his first NFL season, he became a superstar in his second season.
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Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes hoists the Lombardi Trophy after defeating the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LVII
In fact, he was the NFL's MVP a season after starting just one game. From there, the Chiefs front office loaded up on defenders and offensive linemen, filling out the roster as best as possible. When Mahomes’ deal ended, they had to part ways with talent like wide receiver Tyreek Hill. It shows how important it is to utilize that four-year rookie quarterback window.
Steelers assistant GM Weidl can utilize previous experience
It’s no different for the Steelers with Pickett, although they have a limited amount of cap space at the moment. Assistant GM Andy Weidl is familiar with this process, having previously been with the Philadelphia Eagles. While they came up just short, the Eagles went on a tremendous run this past season with a loaded roster. Last offseason, they were able to trade for superstar wideout AJ Brown, which took them over the top.
Jalen Hurts remains on a rookie contract, a key component of the front office being able to build up their now-loaded roster. Quarterback contracts continue to reach unprecedented amounts of money, even when you don’t have a guy like Mahomes. Take Daniel Jones of the New York Giants for example, as he is seeking a deal in excess of $45 million annually. There are exceptions, such as the San Francisco 49ers in years past with Jimmy Garoppolo.
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Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts
It's something that the Steelers now will want to do, as they need to somewhat overload their aging defense. The front office has used several draft picks on the offense over the past few years, so that side of the ball remains really young.
Do you see Pickett as the long-term answer at QB? Who should the front office target this offseason in the draft and in free agency? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comment section below, yinz!
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