Eagles QB Kenny Pickett highlights one significant reason for his Steelers departure

Kenny Pickett had a record of 14-10 as a starter, but unfortunately, his injury issues were the main problem. The quarterback faced a number of health challenges during the 2023 season, which led to the team heavily relying on backup quarterbacks.

Pickett didn’t quite make the impact the Steelers were hoping for. His time with the franchise eventually came to a close this offseason. The quarterback has joined the Philadelphia Eagles, the team he loved since he was a child. He recently shared the true reason for his departure from the Steelers.

Kenny Pickett discloses one Steelers problem after joining Eagles

Kenny Pickett shared details about his departure from the team during his introductory press conference with the Philadelphia Eagles. He mentioned a major “communication breakdown” with the Steelers, which ultimately led to his decision to request a trade.

It has been reported that the Steelers have given the signal-caller the assurance that he will have the opportunity to start. However, it was later revealed that Russell Wilson would be the designated starter, despite their previous agreement. Pickett felt a bit unsettled by this miscommunication, which led him to request a trade.

“I think the communication is what it is. It was behind closed doors. I’m confident with the way I handled it,” Pickett said via Fox Sports.

Pickett and the Steelers were said to be having trouble getting along earlier, with rumors saying he didn’t want to be the No. 3 quarterback for the Week 17 game of the 2023 season. Pickett explained that he was unable to attend due to medical reasons. He mentioned that he had not fully recovered from a high-ankle sprain.

The Steelers’ stance on Pickett’s future seemed to fluctuate. Head coach Mike Tomlin initially affirmed Pickett as the starting quarterback for the offseason but also hinted at the possibility of bringing in competition. However, general manager Omar Khan seemed so sure about Pickett last month, saying the franchise had “full faith” that Pickett could do well with new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.

Nevertheless, the Steelers ambiguity in the QB was compounded when the team ultimately pursued Russell Wilson, despite previous assurances regarding Pickett’s role within the organization. The team now has Justin Fields as the backup quarterback of Wilson.

Kenny Pickett was an Eagles fan before becoming team’s backup QB

Kenny Pickett is a hometown hero returning to his roots. Born and raised in Ocean Township, New Jersey, his journey to the Eagles is a story of coming full circle.

The signal-caller grew up as an Eagles fan, and his dreams have now materialized into reality as he dons the green and white jersey of his childhood heroes. The trade from the Steelers to the Eagles represents a homecoming for the talented quarterback.

“I just thought it was time. It just felt like it was time from things that transpired. Wanted to get a chance to go somewhere else and continue to grow my career. The fact that it’s in Philly, the place that I found the love for the game”, Pickett said reflecting on his decision to join the Eagles.

Pickett will serve as the backup to Jalen Hurts, bjt his commitment to contributing to the team’s success is unwavering. He has already engaged with his fellow quarterbacks on strategies to elevate the team’s performance.

“It’s a good reset. It’s a crazy league, crazy business. I’m just trying to put my best foot forward and be an asset for this team.”

Pickett is thrilled to join the Eagles, as it allows him to pursue a lifelong dream and show his gratitude to the team that ignited his love for football. In the past two seasons with the Steelers, he has thrown for 4,474 yards and 13 touchdowns, with 13 interceptions in 25 games. We’ll have to wait and see if he can deliver an impressive performance with the Philly squad.