How Steelers Thought Signing Have Benefited one of the QBs
Furious that the Steelers had allegedly broken their promise to make him the team’s undisputed starter, Pickett asked for a move. In response, the Steelers sent him to Philadelphia. At that point, Pittsburgh’s chances of landing Justin Fields were greatly increased.
But according to ESPN’s Brook Pryor, Wilson never requested or received an assurance from the Steelers that he would start before signing.
“A person familiar with the negotiations said that Wilson asked for no guarantees regarding a starting position, and the Steelers did not provide any.
The source claimed that “he has competed his entire life.” It doesn’t terrify him, according to Pryor.
Pryor said that the Steelers believed that Pickett would have benefited from studying under a nine-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion, as well as having additional incentive for the rookie quarterback.
“According to a club source, Wilson would have benefited from the addition, and pursuing Wilson would “kick Kenny into gear” and reignite the competitive fire that had drawn Pittsburgh’s attention throughout the draft selection process. Rather, it had the opposite effect.
During his first press conference after joining the Eagles, Pickett stated that he thought he handled his departure from Pittsburgh appropriately.
“I believe that the communication is at this point. It took place behind closed doors. With the way I handled it, I’m confident,” Pickett remarked.
In the end, Pickett believes that his seven years of playing in Pittsburgh—which accounts for his time there—justifies a new beginning. Now, he will get the opportunity to play for the Ocean Township, New Jersey, team that he grew up supporting.
During the NFL owner’s meetings, Tomlin expressed his wishes for Pickett’s future and refrained from passing judgment on his choice. Before executing the transaction that sent Pickett and two draft selections to Philadelphia in exchange for the No. 98th pick this year and two 2025 seventh-round picks, he said the Steelers were certain they could get Fields.
even if Pickett’s time in Pittsburgh wasn’t successful. Omar Khan, general manager of the Steelers, is still optimistic about his future.