Ex-Steelers QB Kenny Pickett leaked Pittsburgh's secrets to give Eagles game-changing advantage

The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted quarterback Kenny Pickett in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, with high hopes for his future as the team’s leader under center. Pickett started during the 2022 and 2023 seasons, but despite moments of promise, he struggled to fully convince the organization of his long-term potential. As his time in Pittsburgh wore on, reports surfaced that Pickett was unhappy with being benched and frustrated by the Steelers' decision to bring in veteran quarterback Russell Wilson.

Feeling the pressure and his future uncertain, Pickett requested a trade, which the Steelers ultimately granted, sending him to the Philadelphia Eagles. Although he was acquired as a backup, Pickett’s involvement in the Eagles’ success took an unexpected turn. Reports emerged that Pickett played a significant role in helping the Eagles during their victory over Pittsburgh, with defensive back Darius Slay revealing on his podcast, "Big Play Slay," that Pickett provided crucial insights into the Steelers' strategies.

Slay’s revelation sent shockwaves through the Steelers fan base, as it became clear that Pickett had given the Eagles an inside edge. His knowledge of Pittsburgh's playbook and tendencies reportedly helped the Eagles gain a major advantage, making the Steelers’ loss even more painful.

"We had to get the win for our quarterback," Slay said Tuesday. "Not [Jalen] Hurts. We're talking about Kenny Pickett. He's a great dude. Without Kenny Pickett, I think our defense, I don't want to say wouldn't be great because we want to be great regardless, but Kenny be giving us a great look on scout team."

While many Steelers fans assumed Pickett wouldn’t be much of a concern, it turns out his time in Pittsburgh has been surprisingly beneficial for the Eagles. 

According to Slay, Pickett's practices have played a key role in helping the Eagles defense prepare and improve heading into the 2024 season.

"A da-- great look, even when we play scrambling quarterbacks, guys with strong arms because he can do it all," Slay said. "He's got a strong arm, he can run around, he can make plays with his legs. He's done a lot to help us get ready and be ready for these games."

Slay continued to explain the massive impact that Pickett played in preparing the Eagles for the Steelers.

"We did that for you too, Kenny," Slay said. "Shout out to my boy, Kenny, for helping us prepare for this week, giving us tips about what to look for because he's been in that room with them."

While Steelers fans remain divided on Pickett's time in Pittsburgh, it’s clear he left the organization on bad terms, feeling betrayed by head coach Mike Tomlin. Pickett believed he deserved to remain the guaranteed starter, while the Steelers felt they needed to bring in genuine competition for him. This tension ultimately led to his departure.

Steelers thought Russell Wilson would help Kenny Pickett

The Steelers hoped that acquiring Wilson would motivate Pickett to improve and fight for his job. They also believed Wilson’s positive mindset and leadership could provide valuable guidance for Pickett’s development. Instead, Pickett now finds himself as a backup to Jalen Hurts on a strong Eagles team. With his future uncertain, it seems unlikely that Pickett will start in the NFL again anytime soon.

It's fascinating to learn about the impact Pickett has had in Philadelphia, particularly the secrets he may have leaked to help them defeat the Steelers. Watching that game, it was clear the Eagles had a distinct advantage, and it’s likely that Pickett played a significant role in their victory over Pittsburgh on Sunday.

Now the Steelers will look forward to winning the AFC North title. Ahead of the 2024 season, many pundits believed Pittsburgh was going to finish dead last in their division. Instead, the Steelers sit at 10-4 and have a chance to claim the title with a win over the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday. If they can do that, then this loss to the Eagles will be quickly forgotten. If the Steelers don't beat the Ravens, the pressure is going to rise in the Steel City.