What Happened to Kenny Pickett? Who is Kenny Pickett?
by Sangamithra
Updated Jan 16, 2024
What Happened to Kenny Pickett?
Kenny Pickett, the Pittsburgh Steelers' 2021 first-round pick, has faced challenges this season, leading to questions about his absence in the Wild Card Round playoff game against the Buffalo Bills. Despite being active, Pickett is not the starter; Mason Rudolph retains the starting role after going 3-0 in Pickett's absence. Pickett, who returned from an ankle injury, now serves as the backup.
The decision to stick with Rudolph was based on his successful performances, providing a spark to the Steelers' offense. The team, in search of stability, also made changes, including firing offensive coordinator Matt Canada. Pickett's future role remains uncertain, with Rudolph currently leading the team. If the Steelers advance, Rudolph is likely to maintain the starting position.
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Who is Kenny Pickett?
Kenny Pickett, born on June 6, 1998, is a 25-year-old American football quarterback currently playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL. Hailing from Ocean Township, New Jersey, he excelled in high school at Ocean Township before attending the University of Pittsburgh from 2017 to 2021. In 2021, Pickett earned notable accolades such as the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, ACC Athlete of the Year, and ACC Player of the Year.
The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted him in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft as the 20th overall pick. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 220 pounds, Pickett has made a mark in his professional career, showcasing his skills as an accomplished quarterback with impressive achievements.
Full Name
Kenny Pickett
Birthdate
June 6, 1998
Birthplace
Oakhurst, New Jersey, USA
College
University of Pittsburgh
Major
Marketing
Position
Quarterback
Height
6 ft 3+1⁄4 in (1.91 m)
Weight
217 lb (98 kg)
NFL Draft
2022, 1st round (20th overall) - Pittsburgh Steelers
NFL Debut
Week 4, 2022 season
Notable Achievements
ACC Champion (2021), First-team All-American (2021), Heisman Trophy finalist (2021, 3rd place)
Current Team
Pittsburgh Steelers
Kenny Pickett's Early Life
Kenny Pickett, born in the Oakhurst section of Ocean Township, New Jersey, attended Ocean Township High School and graduated in 2017. In his junior year, he led the Spartans to the New Jersey Central Group III semifinals, achieving a 9–2 record. Pickett, ranked 23rd among high school football players in New Jersey by 247Sports, had an impressive senior year with 4,670 passing yards, 43 touchdowns, 873 rushing yards, and 17 rushing touchdowns.
Initially committed to Temple University, he later switched to the University of Pittsburgh for college football. Pickett's early achievements and versatility laid the foundation for his successful journey from high school to becoming a prominent NFL quarterback with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Kenny Pickett Career
Kenny Pickett's football journey started at the University of Pittsburgh in 2017, where he initially served as a backup. His breakout moment came in his freshman season when he led the Panthers to an upset victory over the second-ranked Miami Hurricanes, showcasing both passing and rushing skills. Pickett became the full-time starter in 2018, helping Pittsburgh win their first ACC Coastal Division Championship.
Over the years, he consistently contributed, even in a shortened 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In his final college season in 2021, Pickett set records with 4,319 yards and 42 touchdowns, earning him a first-team All-American selection and making him a Heisman Trophy finalist. After graduating with a bachelor's degree in marketing, he returned for a final year of eligibility and attended the Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business.
The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted Pickett in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Despite facing challenges in his rookie NFL season, including concussions and injuries, Pickett showed promise, becoming the first rookie quarterback to throw game-winning touchdowns in the final minutes of consecutive games. As of the 2023 season, he continues to navigate the ups and downs of his professional career, displaying resilience and determination.
Kenny Pickett Age
Kenny Pickett was born on June 6, 1998, making him currently 25 years old. His birthplace is the Oakhurst section of Ocean Township, New Jersey. Pickett's football journey began in high school at Ocean Township High, where he excelled before continuing his career at the University of Pittsburgh.
Known for his achievements, including a standout senior season and being drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2022, Pickett's age of 25 reflects a relatively young but promising career as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL).
Kenny Pickett's Net Worth
As of 2024, Kenny Pickett's estimated net worth is approximately $6 million, primarily stemming from his contracts in the National Football League (NFL). Pickett, recognized as a highly-skilled quarterback, has earned his financial success through his performance on the football field.
His net worth reflects the rewards of his dedication and talent, showcasing his position among the noteworthy quarterbacks in the NFL. The substantial figure stands as a testament to Pickett's deserving achievements in his career, validating the recognition and compensation he has received for his contributions to the sport.
Is Kenny Pickett Injured?
Yes, Kenny Pickett has faced injury concerns this season. He returned from an ankle injury, but Mason Rudolph retained the starting quarterback position for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Wild Card Round playoff game against the Buffalo Bills. Despite being active, Pickett served as the backup. His intermittent absence from the lineup has raised questions about his fitness and role within the team.
What Happened to Kenny Pickett - FAQs
Kenny Pickett is currently serving as the backup due to a recent ankle injury, with Mason Rudolph maintaining the starting role.
Mason Rudolph has excelled, going 3-0 and securing the Steelers a playoff spot, leading to the decision to keep him as the starter.
The decision depends on the team's performance, but for now, Mason Rudolph is leading, and Pickett remains the backup.
Injuries, including an ankle injury that required tightrope surgery, have kept Pickett in and out of the lineup.
Yes, the Steelers made adjustments, including firing offensive coordinator Matt Canada, seeking stability in the offense.