Ben Roethlisberger 'severely underestimated' rookie QB Kenny Pickett

By Aaron Becker | Last updated Jan 5, 2023 10:32 AM ET

The quarterback position was viewed as one of the weaker spots in the 2022 NFL Draft class. But it's starting to look like the Steelers got their guy at QB for the foreseeable future.

Ben Roethlisberger, like many, apologized to rookie Kenny Pickett for misjudging him.

"I wasn't sure what to expect from Kenny. I know he played great at Pitt," Roethlisberger said on his "Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger" podcast. "I severely, in my opinion, underestimated Kenny."

Pickett did struggle early, throwing eight interceptions in his first five games. However, he has since turned the ball over just once and led two fourth-quarter comebacks to keep his team in playoff contention.

Pittsburgh is 8-8 after starting the year 2-6, and a large part has been Pickett's growth and leadership.

"He throws the ball better than I thought. He runs way better than I thought," Roethlisberger added. "His decision-making is really, really good. His leadership, his toughness, just enough of an edge to him."

Even if the Steelers don't make the playoffs this season, the future is looking bright for Pittsburgh and its young quarterback who continues to prove his doubters wrong.

"Kenny, keep doing what you're doing because you are leading this team and becoming the guy that everyone was hoping he would be," Roethlisberger finished. "I think the sky's the limit for him."

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