Kenny Pickett's Latest Comments Spark Big Accusations Of Steelers Jab: "I Was Just Shown"

The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted quarterback Kenny Pickett in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. The expectation was that he would develop into the face of the franchise, but after just two seasons, the Steelers decided he had not done enough to secure the job long term. The team brought in veteran quarterback Russell Wilson, a move that clearly frustrated Pickett. Feeling like he was no longer part of the team's future, he requested a trade and was quickly sent to the Philadelphia Eagles.

Pickett’s time in Philadelphia did not last long. He is now with the Cleveland Browns for the 2025 season and looking for a fresh start. On Wednesday, Pickett spoke to the media. While he remained professional in his comments, many fans in Pittsburgh believed his words carried a sense of frustration with how things ended in Pittsburgh.

Some Steelers fans accused Pickett of taking a shot at the organization during his media session. His tone and phrasing led to speculation that he still feels slighted by the way the Steelers handled the quarterback situation. Whether or not that was his intent, his departure from Pittsburgh continues to stir strong reactions from both sides.

"I am extremely grateful for my time in Philly," Pickett said. "I think I was just shown how it’s supposed to be done, really, from the top down. When you get a chance to see what it’s supposed to look like and how it should look on a day-to-day basis, and not just on Sundays, I think it will pay dividends for me in the future."

Pickett quickly found himself in a winning situation after being traded to the Eagles, where he became part of a team that went on to win the Super Bowl. While technically earning a championship ring, there has been ongoing debate about whether Pickett should truly carry that title, considering his limited role during the season. 

As the backup quarterback, he saw minimal playing time and contributed only in brief moments. Despite the team success, the Eagles chose to move on just one year later, sending Pickett to the Browns in another shakeup to their quarterback room.

This isn’t the first time Pickett has been accused of taking subtle digs at the Steelers. Even during his short stint in Philadelphia, comments he made to the media raised eyebrows among fans in Pittsburgh. He praised the Eagles’ organization for its strong culture and structure, which some interpreted as an indirect critique of how things were run during his time with the Steelers. Though Pickett never mentioned Pittsburgh by name, the contrast he drew between the two environments did not go unnoticed.

The most pointed moment may have come when Pickett spoke about finally getting to see "how things are supposed to look" within an NFL operation. That line, in particular, fueled speculation that he was referencing dysfunction or disappointment from his time in Pittsburgh. 

While some believe these remarks were just part of a player adjusting to a new team, many Steelers fans saw them as a reflection of lingering resentment. Whether intentional or not, Pickett's words continue to create tension between him and the fan base that once hoped he would be their franchise quarterback.

Ex-Steelers QB Kenny Pickett Could Get Revenge In 2025

Now that Pickett is with the Browns, he has a chance to compete for the starting job in a crowded and competitive quarterback room. While some believe he could emerge as the frontrunner, Pickett will need to earn the role by showing growth and consistency during training camp and the preseason.

If Pickett wins the job, the 2025 season gains extra significance. He would face his former team twice, adding a personal edge to the heated Browns-Steelers rivalry. The storyline of a former first-round pick proving himself against the team that moved on from him will draw plenty of attention.

Pickett’s journey from franchise hopeful in Pittsburgh to potential starter in Cleveland adds emotion and drama to the rivalry. Whether he earns the job or not, his story will be a key narrative throughout the season.

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