Steelers Avoid Disaster With Kenny Pickett’s Knee Injury

The Pittsburgh Steelers found themselves in an unenviable situation during Sunday’s lopsided 30-6 to the Houston Texans. Quarterback Kenny Pickett exited the game late in the 3rd quarter with a knee injury. Texans defender Jonathan Greenard would eventually make his way to Pickett, resulting in a failed 4th down attempt. Veteran signal caller Mitch Trubisky would take over for the remainder of the contest.

Kenny Pickett's pocket movement is awful. He sacks himself or drifts into defenders way too often, just like in college.

He ends up getting hurt on a 4th and 1 stop, unfortunately. pic.twitter.com/AjWrYEktWr

— Ian Valentino (@NFLDraftStudy) October 1, 2023

While the worst was initially feared, this was apparently much ado about nothing. Pickett’s knee injury is not considered to be serious, according to reports. The Steelers have dodged a major bullet, as it appears that Pickett may not miss any time. Pittsburgh would again turn to Trubisky if Pickett is unable to play Sunday against Baltimore.

Pickett did not have his best performance Sunday, completing 15 of 23 passes for 114 yards and an interception while being sacked three times. This has been a recurring theme as Pickett has not taken the leap in year two that many expected. Pickett has completed 60.6% of his pass attempts, averaging just over 200 yards per game with four touchdowns and four interceptions. While disappointing, Pittsburgh is in a better position with Pickett rather than the alternative as things stand currently.

Pittsburgh may have to decide on the future of the quarterback position if Pickett is unable to improve. The Steelers cannot afford to have lackluster play at the most important position in sports with the amount of talent they have.