Big Ben argues Steelers should shut down Pickett

Kenny Pickett Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Ben Roethlisberger makes argument for Steelers to shut down QB Kenny Pickett

By Aaron Becker | Last updated 12/21/22

The Steelers' (6-8) playoff hopes are looking pretty bleak. Is there an argument to be made about shutting down rookie QB Kenny Pickett for the rest of the season?

Former Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger believes there is.

"I don't want to say ever 'listen I'm done for the season,' but at some point, if you're the franchise and you're not gonna make it, you're not going anywhere, it might be smart to shut him down," Roethlisberger said on his "Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger" podcast. "If he's your guy of the future, which obviously he is, maybe it's smart to do that."

Pickett has suffered two concussions this year. And although Pittsburgh isn't mathematically eliminated from the playoffs quite yet, it's looking very unlikely.

The Steelers currently have a 0.3% chance to make the Playoffs. #Steelers #NFL
— Blitzburgh (@Blitz_Burgh) December 21, 2022

Head coach Mike Tomlin won't shut down any players as long as the team has a shot at the playoffs, but their chances may hit zero after Week 16. The Ravens and Browns do follow, however.

"The last two games are against division opponents you want experience playing against, but you also don't want to get injured again," Roethlisberger added. "He got his work in. I know there's something to be said about getting as many reps as you can, but there's also something to say about knocking off the cobwebs, too."

Pickett has cleared the concussion protocol after missing Week 15 and is set to play vs. the Raiders for the 50th anniversary of the 'Immaculate Reception.'

There's no doubt the Steelers will be playing with their hearts on their sleeves following the passing of Franco Harris. And maybe Pickett most of all, as Harris announced the Steelers 2022 first-round pick that turned out to extend his stay in the 'Steel City.'

Rest In Peace to Steelers legend Franco Harris. Here he is announcing his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, Pittsburgh QB Kenny Pickett. The best moment from a wonderful night. Franco’s energy and passion, 2nd to none. The NFL community will miss him. pic.twitter.com/HcboNpr8dy
— Sam Block (@theblockspot) December 21, 2022