Ranking every single starting NFL quarterback based on their 2022 season
By Ryan Heckman
Ranking NFL quarterbacks based on 2022: 30. Kenny Pickett, Steelers
This year’s rookie class was nothing too special in the quarterback department, but Kenny Pickett was the lone guy to start as many games as he did. Taking over in Week 4 for Mitchell Trubisky, Pickett led the Steelers to an impressive finish to their season. Although the team ended at 9-8 and just short of a playoff berth, Pittsburgh should feel positive going into their offseason behind a relatively successful season from their rookie quarterback.
Looking at the numbers, Pickett’s rookie year wasn’t overly impressive, but that wouldn’t be telling the entire story.
He finished going 245 of 389 for 2,404 yards, seven touchdowns and nine interceptions. One underrated aspect of Pickett’s game, this year though, was his ability to pick up first downs and touchdowns on the ground. Pickett ran 55 times for 237 yards (with a long of 23) and three touchdowns. Of those 55 carries, 23 of them went for first downs.
In terms of his passing game, Pickett struggled at times. But, many fans will come to his aid and say that, yes, he’s a rookie. But, also, the offensive line didn’t help him out much. The Steelers absolutely have to fix that area going forward, if they are to truly develop Pickett into their guy.