Kenny Pickett is an American football quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles. He played college football at the University of Pittsburgh, where he won the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award as a senior. Pickett was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft.
1976: Pickett Leads Pitt to Best Record Since 1976
In his final year of eligibility in 2021, Kenny Pickett led the Pittsburgh Panthers to an 11-2 record, the best for the school since 1976. This achievement highlighted his impact on the team's success and solidified his legacy as one of Pitt's standout quarterbacks.
1997: Latest a Quarterback Was First Taken in Draft Since 1997
Kenny Pickett's selection in the 2022 NFL Draft was the latest a quarterback had been taken first overall since 1997. This highlighted the unusual nature of his draft position and the perceived scarcity of top quarterback prospects in that particular year.
June 6, 1998: Kenny Pickett is Born
On June 6, 1998, Kenny Pickett was born in Oakhurst, New Jersey. He would go on to have a successful career in American football, playing as a quarterback in the NFL.
2004: Highest Steelers Selected a Quarterback Since 2004
The Pittsburgh Steelers' selection of Kenny Pickett in the 2022 NFL Draft was the highest they had selected a quarterback since drafting Ben Roethlisberger in 2004. This move signaled the team's investment in Pickett as a potential successor to Roethlisberger, who had recently retired.
2017: Pickett Debuts for Pittsburgh
In 2017, Kenny Pickett made his debut as a freshman for the University of Pittsburgh, starting in the final game of the season against Miami. Despite being a backup for most of the season, he showcased his potential in this game, contributing to a notable upset victory.
2017: Pickett Graduates High School and Commits to University of Pittsburgh
Kenny Pickett graduated from Ocean Township High School in 2017. Initially committing to Temple University, he later switched his commitment to the University of Pittsburgh, marking the beginning of his college football journey.
2018: Pickett Leads Pitt to ACC Coastal Division Championship
In 2018, Kenny Pickett, as the starting quarterback, led the University of Pittsburgh Panthers to their first-ever Atlantic Coast Conference Coastal Division Championship. This marked a historic achievement for both Pickett and the Panthers.
2019: Pickett and the Panthers Triumph in Quick Lane Bowl
In 2019, Kenny Pickett led the Pittsburgh Panthers to victory in the Quick Lane Bowl against Eastern Michigan. He threw for 361 yards and 3 touchdowns, including a game-winning touchdown, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
2020: Pickett Takes Advantage of Extra Eligibility
In 2020, Kenny Pickett, like other fall athletes, was granted an extra year of eligibility by the NCAA due to the impact of the pandemic. He decided to utilize this opportunity, opting to return as the Panthers' starting quarterback for the 2021 season.
2020: Pickett and the Panthers Navigate a Pandemic-Shortened Season
In 2020, Kenny Pickett and the Pittsburgh Panthers faced the challenges of a season shortened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the disruptions, they achieved a 6-5 record, demonstrating their resilience and adaptability in the face of unprecedented circumstances.
2021: Pickett Returns for Final Year at Pittsburgh
In 2021, Kenny Pickett returned for his final year of eligibility as the starting quarterback for the University of Pittsburgh. His decision showcased a commitment to his team and his personal development as a player.
September 6, 2022: Pickett Named Backup Quarterback for Steelers
On September 6, 2022, Kenny Pickett was named the backup quarterback for the Steelers, behind starter Mitch Trubisky. This decision marked the beginning of his professional journey in the NFL with the team that drafted him.
October 4, 2022: Pickett Named Starting Quarterback
On October 4, 2022, Kenny Pickett was named the starting quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers by head coach Mike Tomlin. This marked a significant step forward in his rookie season and a vote of confidence from the coaching staff.
December 20, 2022: Franco Harris's Final Public Appearance
On December 20, 2022, Steelers legend Franco Harris made one of his last public appearances with the team before his unexpected death. He announced Kenny Pickett's selection in the 2022 NFL Draft.
2022: Pickett Drafted into the NFL
In 2022, Kenny Pickett was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the NFL Draft. This marked a significant milestone in his football career.
June 24, 2023: Pickett Marries Amy Paternoster
On June 24, 2023, Kenny Pickett married Amy Paternoster. This event marked a significant personal milestone in his life.
March 16, 2024: Pickett Traded to Philadelphia Eagles
On March 16, 2024, Kenny Pickett was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles. This move signified a change in his NFL career trajectory, taking him to a new team and a fresh start.
2025: Two 2025 Seventh-Round Picks Included in Trade
As part of the trade that sent Kenny Pickett to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024, two seventh-round picks in the 2025 NFL Draft were included in the deal. These picks represented future assets for the Steelers as they rebuilt their team.