The Pittsburgh Steelers aren't contenders, but they might have a franchise quarterback.
Kenny Pickett had his best game as a pro yet during the Steelers' 24-17 win over the Indianapolis Colts on Monday night.
Pickett threw for 20/28 and 147 yards during the victory and helped set up the Steelers' rushing attack in the red zone for two touchdowns.
While Pickett might not be lighting up the scoreboard, he is playing efficient, clean football.
Only 3 QB have started each of the last 3 weeks and have ZERO turnovers
— NFL on CBS (@NFLonCBS) November 29, 2022
Jimmy Garoppolo
Jared Goff
KENNY PICKETT pic.twitter.com/pGwoWOrEQP
The Steelers might not be contending this year, but the real battle was making sure Pickett, the team's first-round pick last spring, was ready for primetime.
He impressed ESPN NFL analyst Louis Riddick with his poise and ability on a scoring drive during the Colts win.
Kenny Pickett @kennypickett10 putting the ball on the money-money tonight. Nice drive by the rook. In total control. #H2P
— Louis Riddick (@LRiddickESPN) November 29, 2022
Most importantly, Pickett seems to be winning over his teammates.
Mason Cole said Kenny Pickett called the run play on third and goal when Benny Snell scored. Cole added, “To see that confidence … it’s big. It really shows who he is as a leader.”
— Chris Halicke (@ChrisHalicke) November 29, 2022
The Steelers have a lot of work to do to shore up the roster and get back to the franchise's typical winning ways. Having Pickett playing at a confident level in his first season is a huge piece of the puzzle.
If Pickett really can be Pittsburgh's future, it's going to help give Steelers fans a lot more to look forward to in the years to come.
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