Steelers: 3 possible games for Kenny Pickett’s first start
By John Buhler
2. Week 4: vs. New York Jets (Sunday, Oct. 2)
Assuming Pickett does not win the starting job right out the gate, the earliest it would make sense otherwise for him to make his first career start vs. the Steelers would be at home in Week 4 vs. the rebuilding New York Jets. This date would come after three challenging AFC games, including two in division for the Steelers. If Trubisky really struggles, then it might be time to turn the page.
Not only will this be a home game vs. a rebuilding team, but it will be played in the early afternoon window, meaning very little pressure for an early-season game for rookie quarterback like Pickett. Frankly, all the pressure will be on his presumptive quarterbacking counterpart Zach Wilson, who needs to have a strong second season out of BYU for Gang Green to feel confident about him.
By starting Pickett this early, the belief is this will be a rebuilding year for the Steelers as well. Three of their next four games after the Jets date will be vs. playoff teams from a year ago. While Pickett may thrive being thrust into the fire, Trubisky’s proven track record of being able to win games despite rarely averaging his wingspan when it comes to yards per attempt keeps him in.
If Pickett does not debut on Oct. 2 vs. the Jets, his first start is not coming until over a month later.