Off-season theory - What if...

[K_C_]

Great post! I had about 60% of this typed up a couple times and never hit submit!

100% with you on how you would have handled KP. The bizarre part is they could have done your way, and still have signed Wilson and Fields with some persuasive talking!


Will be interesting to hear the retrospectives as they drop out in the coming months.

You should always hit “submit”! (that would have saved me a lot of typing).

Yeah, I am disappointed at how the Pickett situation went. Kenny unfortunately became the latest lightning rod for those that cannot bring themselves to criticize Tomlin, even though the evidence of his incompetence is everywhere. But at the end of the day, this team’s problems begin and end with Jibbs on the sidelines and Art II afraid to say goodbye to his Rooney Rule mascot.

Until that happens, I think we are all just kidding ourselves. Tomlin is a black hole. Great offensive players want no part of the Steelers because their stats will never be good and they aren’t winning Super Bowls. Hell, they aren’t even winning playoff games. Why on earth would you want to be drafted by the Steelers if you were an offensive stud? They certainly are not signing any star free agents on offense. Like the coaching staff, any free agents that come to the Steelers on the offense are signing because they have no other options, or don’t care anymore and want that one last payday. Jibbs is well known for having soft practices and playing favorites. Stay on his good side and you will be part of his good ol’ boy network and you’ll never have a worry, What a great, pressure free way to make a few million and ride out your career. And if you are in your 30’s, you’ll never have to worry about the wear and tear on your body due to a long playoff run.

If the rumor about Najee is true (he told the Steelers not to pick up his 5th year option), young players want no part of playing for Coach Teflon. That’s quite an indictment of Mr. Leader of Men.

Obviously I took a lot of shit here for my Pickett support, but I don't regret any of it. I wouldn't be a bit surprised if Pickett goes on to become a very good NFL QB whether it's in Philly or somewhere else. I also believe Kenny was destined to fail from day one when Tomlin kept Matt Canada (who Ben Roethlisberger detested playing for) as Pickett's OC for almost the entirety of Pickett's Steelers career.

That said, I believe Mike Tomlin has been given an edict to start not only making the playoffs regularly, but to start winning playoff games OR COOL SHADES IS GONE. If that actually did happen, then Tomlin made the right move in adding Russell Wilson, who is a proven, Super Bowl winning QB to the QB room. Kenny obviously has way more upside than Russ, but Wilson is coming off a good bounce back year in Denver and could still have 3 or 4 good years left in him. If Mike Tomlin was given an edict to WIN NOW, he simply could not go into next season with Kenny Pickett as QB1. KP8 didn't do enough to not have competition for the starting job .

Kenny obviously handled his (deserved) benching in favor of Mason Rudolph at the end of last season poorly. I 100% believe that Kenny, at first, refused to be the emergency QB until he looked like a complete asshole in the press. Kenny simply didn't play well enough to be the unquestioned starter, so he should have handled that benching in a professional manner, like Mason Rudolph did when he was constantly passed over for opportunities that he deserved. Kenny came off as an entitled dickhead and that disappointed me massively. Then, after Russell Wilson was signed, it came to light pretty quickly that Kenny did not greet a very possible Hall of Famer in Russell Wilson warmly, after Russ reached out to Kenny. Once again, act like a goddamn professional. I get that Kenny was pissed and he might have to back up Russell Wilson for a season, but Russ is on a 1 year deal. Kenny almost certainly is the starter again in 2025 if he shuts the fuck up, works hard and gets better. Instead, Pickett demanded a trade and the Steelers sent him somewhere he is in a much, much worse position. Jalen Hurts is a franchise QB and has proven he can play with the best, when he took Mahomes to the wall in the Super Bowl. Kenny won't play in Philly unless Jalen is hurt (no pun intended) and Hurts is one tough sonofabitch. He will play injured, so I don't expect Kenny will play in Philly...possibly not at all.

Again, I liked Kenny and still believe he could have developed, but after Tomlin was very likely told his job was on the line, Cool Shades had no choice but to find a proven winner to be his QB and Russell Wilson is that guy. Kenny really, really fucked up with how he handled the Wilson signing and Rudolph getting the start at the end of last season. I wish Pickett luck in Philly. He's gonna need it.

[CoolShades]

Obviously I took a lot of shit here for my Pickett support, but I don't regret any of it. I wouldn't be a bit surprised if Pickett goes on to become a very good NFL QB whether it's in Philly or somewhere else. I also believe Kenny was destined to fail from day one when Tomlin kept Matt Canada (who Ben Roethlisberger detested playing for) as Pickett's OC for almost the entirety of Pickett's Steelers career.

I agree. Keeping Canada after 2022 and letting him coach 2023 was a disaster of a decision. Thanks, Cool Shades!

That said, I believe Mike Tomlin has been given an edict to start not only making the playoffs regularly, but to start winning playoff games OR COOL SHADES IS GONE. If that actually did happen, then Tomlin made the right move in adding Russell Wilson, who is a proven, Super Bowl winning QB to the QB room. Kenny obviously has way more upside than Russ, but Wilson is coming off a good bounce back year in Denver and could still have 3 or 4 good years left in him. If Mike Tomlin was given an edict to WIN NOW, he simply could not go into next season with Kenny Pickett as QB1. KP8 didn't do enough to not have competition for the starting job .

We shall see. Obviously, I hope 2024 is Tomlin’s last season. But I’ve been disappointed before.

IMO, he made the right decision for himself, not the organization. If my theory is correct, he absolutely went with Russ because he was afraid of betting on Pickett. That says a lot for a guy who considers himself a HOF-caliber coach.

No, Tomlin is insecure and a chicken shit, more worried about next season and NHALS than the long-term health of the Steelers, an organization that has made him a very rich man and has employed him for 17 mostly mediocre seasons. So his decision was no surprise to me. He’s a fraud and will do anything to maintain the illusion of Mike Tomlin - HOF coach and SUPER GENIUS,

You believe Russ has value... that’s fine. Personally, I don’t. I acknowledge I could be wrong. However, I don’t think 1) Seattle trades him and 2) Denver pays him $40 million to play for another team - if he has anything left. I believe he’s washed. Denver believes he’s not only washed, but it is worth $40 million to their organization to get him the hell away from their locker room. That tells me he’s also a cancer. Seattle was so impressed with their Super Bowl winning QB that they traded him. But yeah, I guess he could have 3-4 good years left. Anything is possible. Monkeys could also fly out of my butt.

Remember too... just like Russ is a proven SB QB, so is Tomlin a proven SB HC. That means dick to me. Russ won his SB over a decade ago, so I’m not hanging my hat on that. 2013 for Russ. 2008 for Cool Shades. That’s a long time ago. I’d fire Tomlin yesterday if it was up to me. Russ has his ring, but that doesn’t make him a SB QB now. It just doesn’t.

Kenny obviously handled his (deserved) benching in favor of Mason Rudolph at the end of last season poorly. I 100% believe that Kenny, at first, refused to be the emergency QB until he looked like a complete asshole in the press. Kenny simply didn't play well enough to be the unquestioned starter, so he should have handled that benching in a professional manner, like Mason Rudolph did when he was constantly passed over for opportunities that he deserved. Kenny came off as an entitled dickhead and that disappointed me massively. Then, after Russell Wilson was signed, it came to light pretty quickly that Kenny did not greet a very possible Hall of Famer in Russell Wilson warmly, after Russ reached out to Kenny. Once again, act like a goddamn professional. I get that Kenny was pissed and he might have to back up Russell Wilson for a season, but Russ is on a 1 year deal. Kenny almost certainly is the starter again in 2025 if he shuts the fuck up, works hard and gets better. Instead, Pickett demanded a trade and the Steelers sent him somewhere he is in a much, much worse position. Jalen Hurts is a franchise QB and has proven he can play with the best, when he took Mahomes to the wall in the Super Bowl. Kenny won't play in Philly unless Jalen is hurt (no pun intended) and Hurts is one tough sonofabitch. He will play injured, so I don't expect Kenny will play in Philly...possibly not at all.

We’ve been over this already. You simply don’t know any of this as fact. You can believe it, but that doesn’t make it so. I’m not going to act like I know either, but before this all went down and Russ was even a twinkle in Tomlin’s eye, no one but Madden (and maybe another reporter, I don’t know) made the charge that he refused to dress. Of course, no source was ever given. Just a “trust me, bro”, and the local media hacks and the pathetic fan base went crazy with the hate. The media and Steeler PR machine went all in on shitting on him after he asked to be traded, because heaven forbid the man decided what was best for him was to get out of Pittsburgh and not waste another season playing for an archaic, lying sack of shit like Tomlin, or an organization that would rather hang onto a mediocre coach stuck in the past than to move on with a modern NFL mind who could make this a competitive team again and bring in a modern offense.

You, however know all that happened behind the scenes. You know the conversations that Pickett had with the coaching staff, the medical staff, the organization and Tomlin. You know what was agreed upon. You know how Kenny interacted with Russ after the swell Russ Wilson reached out to Kenny (what a guy!) You know his mood. You know how he acted. You know his every thought. You know everything!

I’m not arguing this with you again unless you provide me a source. A real source, not a bitchy Mark Madden, or some screwy YouTube Steeler fan who thinks he knows what you think you know without providing any proof. I don’t mind anyone speculating, but you act like you were in the loop, or Pickett’s best friend, or can read everyone’s mind, and you state your opinion as fact. You may be right, but you absolutely don’t know and neither does anyone else here.

FWIW, I do remember Tomlin being asked about the “Kenny refusing to dress” rumor and he denied it. Of course, he could have lied. That was before Wilson was on board, and all signs pointed to Kenny being the starter in 2024, so who knows...

Is Kenny in a better or worse place? We’ll see. If Hurts stays healthy he won’t play. True. How’s that any different than if Wilson stays healthy and Kenny was behind Wilson? Kenny went to a better team and a better organization with a real coaching staff and a winning culture. That’s not nothing. Philadelphia will be a good place for him to learn without the bullshit he was dealing with in Pittsburgh. He didn’t trust Tomlin or the organization any longer. It was time to go. He may never be a starting QB in the league again, but in his opinion, leaving the Steelers was the right move. I happen to agree. I think what will determine whether or not he made the right decision is where he ends up after Philadelphia. That will tell the tale. And that could happen via trade any time between now and the end of his contract.

Again, I liked Kenny and still believe he could have developed, but after Tomlin was very likely told his job was on the line, Cool Shades had no choice but to find a proven winner to be his QB and Russell Wilson is that guy. Kenny really, really fucked up with how he handled the Wilson signing and Rudolph getting the start at the end of last season. I wish Pickett luck in Philly. He's gonna need it.

Kenny didn’t fuck anything up. Maybe to you, but he had all the inside information you don’t have access to, and he made a career decision... I’m sure with input from his agent, his family, and most probably Mason and Mitch, both who could give Pickett some perspective on what they thought of Tomlin, the Steelers and the NFL. Especially Mason, who supposedly became good friends with Kenny and dealt with Mediocre Mike for 7 seasons. You act like Kenny didn’t see two years of this shitshow from the inside. My guess is, he saw Tomlin for the fraud he is, looked around the locker room and saw nothing. No winners, no rings (with the Steelers, anyway), no direction, no winning culture, no pride. Just a room full of complacent losers, individual achievers like Watt, Tomlin pets and malcontents, all wired to smile when NHALS is achieved because the fans now accepts this as the standard. Another successful season!

While real NFL teams are striving for the Super Bowl, Team NHALS is getting their tee times set and making vacation plans. All without those pesky bumps and bruises from an extended playoff run (just ask Cam!)

Will Kenny be successful? Who knows. It doesn’t matter. He’s gone and no longer a Steeler. I’ll be rooting for him just because I want to see him haunt Tomlin and the Steelers. But that’s just for me and my twisted pleasure. We’ll see where he is in a few seasons. Hell, he may not even be in the NFL. There are people here who hate Kenny so much, they not only believe that but are actively rooting for it. So I’ll go the other way, just for shits and grins.

People still can’t let Kenny go. Trust me, when Tomlin is gone, I won’t continue to shit on him. I’ll be grateful I finally got my wish and I’ll focus on the new coach.

For that reason, I dare to dream! The way he was treated by Tomlin, the Steelers and the fanbase, it would be awesome to see Pickett win a SB as the starting QB of the Browns. Maybe on the way to the dance, Pickett comes into Pittsburgh, beats the Steelers, and runs over Madden as he’s leaving the stadium parking lot. Steeler Nation would have a stroke. The only drawback to this storyline is, I would also have to buy a Browns jersey. The Eagles jersey is bad enough.

[zeke5123]

Obviously I took a lot of shit here for my Pickett support, but I don't regret any of it. I wouldn't be a bit surprised if Pickett goes on to become a very good NFL QB whether it's in Philly or somewhere else. I also believe Kenny was destined to fail from day one when Tomlin kept Matt Canada (who Ben Roethlisberger detested playing for) as Pickett's OC for almost the entirety of Pickett's Steelers career.

I agree. Keeping Canada after 2022 and letting him coach 2023 was a disaster of a decision. Thanks, Cool Shades!

That said, I believe Mike Tomlin has been given an edict to start not only making the playoffs regularly, but to start winning playoff games OR COOL SHADES IS GONE. If that actually did happen, then Tomlin made the right move in adding Russell Wilson, who is a proven, Super Bowl winning QB to the QB room. Kenny obviously has way more upside than Russ, but Wilson is coming off a good bounce back year in Denver and could still have 3 or 4 good years left in him. If Mike Tomlin was given an edict to WIN NOW, he simply could not go into next season with Kenny Pickett as QB1. KP8 didn't do enough to not have competition for the starting job .

We shall see. Obviously, I hope 2024 is Tomlin’s last season. But I’ve been disappointed before.

IMO, he made the right decision for himself, not the organization. If my theory is correct, he absolutely went with Russ because he was afraid of betting on Pickett. That says a lot for a guy who considers himself a HOF-caliber coach.

No, Tomlin is insecure and a chicken shit, more worried about next season and NHALS than the long-term health of the Steelers, an organization that has made him a very rich man and has employed him for 17 mostly mediocre seasons. So his decision was no surprise to me. He’s a fraud and will do anything to maintain the illusion of Mike Tomlin - HOF coach and SUPER GENIUS,

You believe Russ has value... that’s fine. Personally, I don’t. I acknowledge I could be wrong. However, I don’t think 1) Seattle trades him and 2) Denver pays him $40 million to play for another team - if he has anything left. I believe he’s washed. Denver believes he’s not only washed, but it is worth $40 million to their organization to get him the hell away from their locker room. That tells me he’s also a cancer. Seattle was so impressed with their Super Bowl winning QB that they traded him. But yeah, I guess he could have 3-4 good years left. Anything is possible. Monkeys could also fly out of my butt.

Remember too... just like Russ is a proven SB QB, so is Tomlin a proven SB HC. That means dick to me. Russ won his SB over a decade ago, so I’m not hanging my hat on that. 2013 for Russ. 2008 for Cool Shades. That’s a long time ago. I’d fire Tomlin yesterday if it was up to me. Russ has his ring, but that doesn’t make him a SB QB now. It just doesn’t.

Kenny obviously handled his (deserved) benching in favor of Mason Rudolph at the end of last season poorly. I 100% believe that Kenny, at first, refused to be the emergency QB until he looked like a complete asshole in the press. Kenny simply didn't play well enough to be the unquestioned starter, so he should have handled that benching in a professional manner, like Mason Rudolph did when he was constantly passed over for opportunities that he deserved. Kenny came off as an entitled dickhead and that disappointed me massively. Then, after Russell Wilson was signed, it came to light pretty quickly that Kenny did not greet a very possible Hall of Famer in Russell Wilson warmly, after Russ reached out to Kenny. Once again, act like a goddamn professional. I get that Kenny was pissed and he might have to back up Russell Wilson for a season, but Russ is on a 1 year deal. Kenny almost certainly is the starter again in 2025 if he shuts the fuck up, works hard and gets better. Instead, Pickett demanded a trade and the Steelers sent him somewhere he is in a much, much worse position. Jalen Hurts is a franchise QB and has proven he can play with the best, when he took Mahomes to the wall in the Super Bowl. Kenny won't play in Philly unless Jalen is hurt (no pun intended) and Hurts is one tough sonofabitch. He will play injured, so I don't expect Kenny will play in Philly...possibly not at all.

We’ve been over this already. You simply don’t know any of this as fact. You can believe it, but that doesn’t make it so. I’m not going to act like I know either, but before this all went down and Russ was even a twinkle in Tomlin’s eye, no one but Madden (and maybe another reporter, I don’t know) made the charge that he refused to dress. Of course, no source was ever given. Just a “trust me, bro”, and the local media hacks and the pathetic fan base went crazy with the hate. The media and Steeler PR machine went all in on shitting on him after he asked to be traded, because heaven forbid the man decided what was best for him was to get out of Pittsburgh and not waste another season playing for an archaic, lying sack of shit like Tomlin, or an organization that would rather hang onto a mediocre coach stuck in the past than to move on with a modern NFL mind who could make this a competitive team again and bring in a modern offense.

You, however know all that happened behind the scenes. You know the conversations that Pickett had with the coaching staff, the medical staff, the organization and Tomlin. You know what was agreed upon. You know how Kenny interacted with Russ after the swell Russ Wilson reached out to Kenny (what a guy!) You know his mood. You know how he acted. You know his every thought. You know everything!

I’m not arguing this with you again unless you provide me a source. A real source, not a bitchy Mark Madden, or some screwy YouTube Steeler fan who thinks he knows what you think you know without providing any proof. I don’t mind anyone speculating, but you act like you were in the loop, or Pickett’s best friend, or can read everyone’s mind, and you state your opinion as fact. You may be right, but you absolutely don’t know and neither does anyone else here.

FWIW, I do remember Tomlin being asked about the “Kenny refusing to dress” rumor and he denied it. Of course, he could have lied. That was before Wilson was on board, and all signs pointed to Kenny being the starter in 2024, so who knows...

Is Kenny in a better or worse place? We’ll see. If Hurts stays healthy he won’t play. True. How’s that any different than if Wilson stays healthy and Kenny was behind Wilson? Kenny went to a better team and a better organization with a real coaching staff and a winning culture. That’s not nothing. Philadelphia will be a good place for him to learn without the bullshit he was dealing with in Pittsburgh. He didn’t trust Tomlin or the organization any longer. It was time to go. He may never be a starting QB in the league again, but in his opinion, leaving the Steelers was the right move. I happen to agree. I think what will determine whether or not he made the right decision is where he ends up after Philadelphia. That will tell the tale. And that could happen via trade any time between now and the end of his contract.

Again, I liked Kenny and still believe he could have developed, but after Tomlin was very likely told his job was on the line, Cool Shades had no choice but to find a proven winner to be his QB and Russell Wilson is that guy. Kenny really, really fucked up with how he handled the Wilson signing and Rudolph getting the start at the end of last season. I wish Pickett luck in Philly. He's gonna need it.

Kenny didn’t fuck anything up. Maybe to you, but he had all the inside information you don’t have access to, and he made a career decision... I’m sure with input from his agent, his family, and most probably Mason and Mitch, both who could give Pickett some perspective on what they thought of Tomlin, the Steelers and the NFL. Especially Mason, who supposedly became good friends with Kenny and dealt with Mediocre Mike for 7 seasons. You act like Kenny didn’t see two years of this shitshow from the inside. My guess is, he saw Tomlin for the fraud he is, looked around the locker room and saw nothing. No winners, no rings (with the Steelers, anyway), no direction, no winning culture, no pride. Just a room full of complacent losers, individual achievers like Watt, Tomlin pets and malcontents, all wired to smile when NHALS is achieved because the fans now accepts this as the standard. Another successful season!

While real NFL teams are striving for the Super Bowl, Team NHALS is getting their tee times set and making vacation plans. All without those pesky bumps and bruises from an extended playoff run (just ask Cam!)

Will Kenny be successful? Who knows. It doesn’t matter. He’s gone and no longer a Steeler. I’ll be rooting for him just because I want to see him haunt Tomlin and the Steelers. But that’s just for me and my twisted pleasure. We’ll see where he is in a few seasons. Hell, he may not even be in the NFL. There are people here who hate Kenny so much, they not only believe that but are actively rooting for it. So I’ll go the other way, just for shits and grins.

People still can’t let Kenny go. Trust me, when Tomlin is gone, I won’t continue to shit on him. I’ll be grateful I finally got my wish and I’ll focus on the new coach.

For that reason, I dare to dream! The way he was treated by Tomlin, the Steelers and the fanbase, it would be awesome to see Pickett win a SB as the starting QB of the Browns. Maybe on the way to the dance, Pickett comes into Pittsburgh, beats the Steelers, and runs over Madden as he’s leaving the stadium parking lot. Steeler Nation would have a stroke. The only drawback to this storyline is, I would also have to buy a Browns jersey. The Eagles jersey is bad enough.

Mrs Pickett, your son sucked donkey dick.

[CoolShades]

Mrs Pickett, your son sucked donkey dick.

He’s gone, Zeke. You are the one emotionally involved. You need to ask yourself why. What happened, did he ruin your fantasy team?

You may want to seek emotional support. Show the therapist where on the doll you dreamed Kenny touched you.

It’s ok.. The bad Kenny Pickett can’t hurt you any longer. Sooner or later, you will have to accept that it wasn’t Pickett who fucked up your mediocre franchise.

[K_C_]

Mrs Pickett, your son sucked donkey dick.

He’s gone, Zeke. You are the one emotionally involved. You need to ask yourself why. What happened, did he ruin your fantasy team?

You may want to seek emotional support. Show the therapist where on the doll you dreamed Kenny touched you.

It’s ok.. The bad Kenny Pickett can’t hurt you any longer. Sooner or later, you will have to accept that it wasn’t Pickett who fucked up your mediocre franchise.

The guy that followed Ben (who hated Matt Canada, btw) was always going to be hated unless he was Patrick Mahomes and I’m not sure Patrick Mahomes would have become Patrick Mahomes if Matt Canada and Mike Tomlin were in charge of his development.

These yinzers don’t hate Kenny. They hate the guy that took Ben’s job. I think Wilson and Fields will see a lot less hatred from the masses.

...but I'll add and this simply isn't debatable, that Kenny Pickett is in a far worse situation right now in Philly, than he was in Pittsburgh.

Arguing to the contrary just doesn't make any sense. Philly HAS A FRANCHISE QB. They don't see Kenny Pickett as some kind of "starter in waiting."

They see Kenny as a younger QB they hope develops into a quality backup. That's it. Again, had Kenny not foolishly demanded his way out of Pittsburgh, he would have been behind Russell Wilson. An old QB who very possibly could have been yanked fairly quickly in favor of Pickett. An old QB on a 1 year deal. An old QB whose best days are LONG GONE.

I mean, trying to say Kenny is in a better situation now in Philly, is flat out bullshit.

[anpsteel]

Mrs Pickett, your son sucked donkey dick.

He’s gone, Zeke. You are the one emotionally involved. You need to ask yourself why. What happened, did he ruin your fantasy team?

You may want to seek emotional support. Show the therapist where on the doll you dreamed Kenny touched you.

It’s ok.. The bad Kenny Pickett can’t hurt you any longer. Sooner or later, you will have to accept that it wasn’t Pickett who fucked up your mediocre franchise.

The guy that followed Ben (who hated Matt Canada, btw) was always going to be hated unless he was Patrick Mahomes and I’m not sure Patrick Mahomes would have become Patrick Mahomes if Matt Canada and Mike Tomlin were in charge of his development.

These yinzers don’t hate Kenny. They hate the guy that took Ben’s job. I think Wilson and Fields will see a lot less hatred from the masses.

I know your comment isn't pointed at me... but it seems like a good starting point

I was initially onboard with Pickett- and I think most people were hopeful...

but, to be successful as an NFL QB, with a lesser arm, you have to compensate by being a much better decision maker, having greater vision, and strong anticipation, not to mention accuracy.

Once I realized just how difficult it was for Pickett to put any zip on the ball... I came to the realization he wasn't going to make it.

Watching him throw a deep out, and having to put everything he can on it, just to get it there, crystalized the reality for me.

His full wind up, to make that throw...mind you that, while the ball gets there, it's dying and way off target- fully illustrates his limitations.
Also, his accuracy really suffered once he started throwing harder, to increase velocity.

So, seeing the arm strength issue... and realizing his ability to see the field, make decisions, and anticipate, were below grade... I just don't see how he makes it; but I wish him all the best in his endeavors.

I mean who here wouldn't give their left nut to suit up, make a few million, irrespective of long term success probability???

[K_C_]

He’s gone, Zeke. You are the one emotionally involved. You need to ask yourself why. What happened, did he ruin your fantasy team?

You may want to seek emotional support. Show the therapist where on the doll you dreamed Kenny touched you.

It’s ok.. The bad Kenny Pickett can’t hurt you any longer. Sooner or later, you will have to accept that it wasn’t Pickett who fucked up your mediocre franchise.

The guy that followed Ben (who hated Matt Canada, btw) was always going to be hated unless he was Patrick Mahomes and I’m not sure Patrick Mahomes would have become Patrick Mahomes if Matt Canada and Mike Tomlin were in charge of his development.

These yinzers don’t hate Kenny. They hate the guy that took Ben’s job. I think Wilson and Fields will see a lot less hatred from the masses.

I know your comment isn't pointed at me... but it seems like a good starting point

I was initially onboard with Pickett- and I think most people were hopeful...

but, to be successful as an NFL QB, with a lesser arm, you have to compensate by being a much better decision maker, having greater vision, and strong anticipation, not to mention accuracy.

Once I realized just how difficult it was for Pickett to put any zip on the ball... I came to the realization he wasn't going to make it.

Watching him throw a deep out, and having to put everything he can on it, just to get it there... mind you that, while the ball gets there, it's dying and way off target. His accuracy really suffered once he started throwing harder, to increase velocity.

So, seeing the arm strength issue... and realizing his ability to see the field, make decisions, and anticipate, were below grade... I just don't see how he makes it; but I wish him all the best in his endeavors.

I mean who here wouldn't give their left nut to suit up, make a few million, irrespective of long term success probability???

I didn't see the lack of arm strength that you did. I saw a QB who was being groomed not to take risks. Don't throw picks. Take the check down. Don't take sacks. A punt is okay. Dump it off. Oh and just so you know, Kenny, we're going to run it on first and second down, likely putting you in a 3rd and 8 THEN we'll ask you to get exactly 8 yards. Throw it underneath and let DJ or George get the rest. Avoid the middle of the field. Don't be throwing it over the top. That's risky.

Tomlin and Canada coached the balls off of Pickett. You watch his college tape and the guy obviously wasn't at the level of Big Ben, but Pickett was a gun slinger who was creative and could throw the ball plenty far and with plenty of heat. You saw some of Pickett's Pitt type play at the end of the 2022 season, when the NHALS was on the line. In 2023, Pickett played like he had been neutered. Once Canada left, Kenny played really well vs Cincy then looked bad against Arizona before he got hurt. Looked like he was still playing it too safe with the football in that game.

Also, when Mason Rudolph took over, he played like he had nothing to lose and didn't give a shit about Tomlin's caveman attrition football and playing it safe. Mason went for it. He knew it was his last go 'round in Pittsburgh and he played really well. Threw the ball inside the numbers!! Regularly!! Tomlin was probably shitting himself.

The one thing I'm pretty sure has taken place this offseason, other than Tomlin being given an edict from upstairs to WIN BIG NOW OR GO FUCK YOURSELF, is that caveman football (even with Arthur Smith in place) is going bye bye. I think this team will attack more on offense than they ever did under Canada and I think Najee Harris sees the writing on the wall. I think both Jaylen Warren and the undrafted dude from Georgia are going to see plenty of action, preparing for Najee's imminent departure.

Kenny would have been smart to stay put, but if he had enough of Tomlin, I wouldn't fucking blame him for one minute.

[anpsteel]

The guy that followed Ben (who hated Matt Canada, btw) was always going to be hated unless he was Patrick Mahomes and I’m not sure Patrick Mahomes would have become Patrick Mahomes if Matt Canada and Mike Tomlin were in charge of his development.

These yinzers don’t hate Kenny. They hate the guy that took Ben’s job. I think Wilson and Fields will see a lot less hatred from the masses.

I know your comment isn't pointed at me... but it seems like a good starting point

I was initially onboard with Pickett- and I think most people were hopeful...

but, to be successful as an NFL QB, with a lesser arm, you have to compensate by being a much better decision maker, having greater vision, and strong anticipation, not to mention accuracy.

Once I realized just how difficult it was for Pickett to put any zip on the ball... I came to the realization he wasn't going to make it.

Watching him throw a deep out, and having to put everything he can on it, just to get it there... mind you that, while the ball gets there, it's dying and way off target. His accuracy really suffered once he started throwing harder, to increase velocity.

So, seeing the arm strength issue... and realizing his ability to see the field, make decisions, and anticipate, were below grade... I just don't see how he makes it; but I wish him all the best in his endeavors.

I mean who here wouldn't give their left nut to suit up, make a few million, irrespective of long term success probability???

I didn't see the lack of arm strength that you did. I saw a QB who was being groomed not to take risks. Don't throw picks. Take the check down. Don't take sacks. A punt is okay. Dump it off. Oh and just so you know, Kenny, we're going to run it on first and second down, likely putting you in a 3rd and 8 THEN we'll ask you to get exactly 8 yards. Throw it underneath and let DJ or George get the rest. Avoid the middle of the field. Don't be throwing it over the top. That's risky.

Tomlin and Canada coached the balls off of Pickett. You watch his college tape and the guy obviously wasn't at the level of Big Ben, but Pickett was a gun slinger who was creative and could throw the ball plenty far and with plenty of heat. You saw some of Pickett's Pitt type play at the end of the 2022 season, when the NHALS was on the line. In 2023, Pickett played like he had been neutered. Once Canada left, Kenny played really well vs Cincy then looked bad against Arizona before he got hurt. Looked like he was still playing it too safe with the football in that game.

Also, when Mason Rudolph took over, he played like he had nothing to lose and didn't give a shit about Tomlin's caveman attrition football and playing it safe. Mason went for it. He knew it was his last go 'round in Pittsburgh and he played really well. Threw the ball inside the numbers!! Regularly!! Tomlin was probably shitting himself.

The one thing I'm pretty sure has taken place this offseason, other than Tomlin being given an edict from upstairs to WIN BIG NOW OR GO FUCK YOURSELF, is that caveman football (even with Arthur Smith in place) is going bye bye. I think this team will attack more on offense than they ever did under Canada and I think Najee Harris sees the writing on the wall. I think both Jaylen Warren and the undrafted dude from Georgia are going to see plenty of action, preparing for Najee's imminent departure.

Kenny would have been smart to stay put, but if he had enough of Tomlin, I wouldn't fucking blame him for one minute.

The particular play I'm referring to was a miscommunication- (I cant recall if it was DJ or Pickens) Kenny is throwing the out and the receiver is running a go.

Pickett is throwing to his right, and hes on the near hash mark... he puts everything he has in the throw. Full wind up, full step into, and release with hips, shoulder and arm. Obviously an incomplete pass, but the ball just sorta stalls. For reference, if Ben throws that, it's at the player Bench. Kenny's pass barely makes the sideline.

I'd post the clip, but I can't find it at the moment.

In respect to the 'caveman' football...

I'm in no way convinced we aren't going to see a revival of 60s & early 70s game plans.

I have zero faith in anything connected to Tomlin's coaching.

As I've explained, I'm sure he's a good guy, and a man you want teaching your kid how to grow... but his decision making fucking blows goats.

So, unless Arthur Smith has no restraint placed upon him, Tomlin is going to continue the attrition football, with next to no adjustments... on either side of the ball...

I hope they prove me wrong.

oh lastly, I don't get the hubbub over the GA running back. The dude is slower than Benny Snell.

[K_C_]

I know your comment isn't pointed at me... but it seems like a good starting point

I was initially onboard with Pickett- and I think most people were hopeful...

but, to be successful as an NFL QB, with a lesser arm, you have to compensate by being a much better decision maker, having greater vision, and strong anticipation, not to mention accuracy.

Once I realized just how difficult it was for Pickett to put any zip on the ball... I came to the realization he wasn't going to make it.

Watching him throw a deep out, and having to put everything he can on it, just to get it there... mind you that, while the ball gets there, it's dying and way off target. His accuracy really suffered once he started throwing harder, to increase velocity.

So, seeing the arm strength issue... and realizing his ability to see the field, make decisions, and anticipate, were below grade... I just don't see how he makes it; but I wish him all the best in his endeavors.

I mean who here wouldn't give their left nut to suit up, make a few million, irrespective of long term success probability???

I didn't see the lack of arm strength that you did. I saw a QB who was being groomed not to take risks. Don't throw picks. Take the check down. Don't take sacks. A punt is okay. Dump it off. Oh and just so you know, Kenny, we're going to run it on first and second down, likely putting you in a 3rd and 8 THEN we'll ask you to get exactly 8 yards. Throw it underneath and let DJ or George get the rest. Avoid the middle of the field. Don't be throwing it over the top. That's risky.

Tomlin and Canada coached the balls off of Pickett. You watch his college tape and the guy obviously wasn't at the level of Big Ben, but Pickett was a gun slinger who was creative and could throw the ball plenty far and with plenty of heat. You saw some of Pickett's Pitt type play at the end of the 2022 season, when the NHALS was on the line. In 2023, Pickett played like he had been neutered. Once Canada left, Kenny played really well vs Cincy then looked bad against Arizona before he got hurt. Looked like he was still playing it too safe with the football in that game.

Also, when Mason Rudolph took over, he played like he had nothing to lose and didn't give a shit about Tomlin's caveman attrition football and playing it safe. Mason went for it. He knew it was his last go 'round in Pittsburgh and he played really well. Threw the ball inside the numbers!! Regularly!! Tomlin was probably shitting himself.

The one thing I'm pretty sure has taken place this offseason, other than Tomlin being given an edict from upstairs to WIN BIG NOW OR GO FUCK YOURSELF, is that caveman football (even with Arthur Smith in place) is going bye bye. I think this team will attack more on offense than they ever did under Canada and I think Najee Harris sees the writing on the wall. I think both Jaylen Warren and the undrafted dude from Georgia are going to see plenty of action, preparing for Najee's imminent departure.

Kenny would have been smart to stay put, but if he had enough of Tomlin, I wouldn't fucking blame him for one minute.

The particular play I'm referring to was a miscommunication- (I cant recall if it was DJ or Pickens) Kenny is throwing the out and the receiver is running a go.

Pickett is throwing to his right, and hes on the near hash mark... he puts everything he has in the throw. Full wind up, full step into, and release with hips, shoulder and arm. Obviously an incomplete pass, but the ball just sorta stalls. For reference, if Ben throws that, it's at the player Bench. Kenny's pass barely makes the sideline.

I'd post the clip, but I can't find it at the moment.

In respect to the 'caveman' football...

I'm in no way convinced we aren't going to see a revival of 60s & early 70s game plans.

I have zero faith in anything connected to Tomlin's coaching.

As I've explained, I'm sure he's a good guy, and a man you want teaching your kid how to grow... but his decision making fucking blows goats.

So, unless Arthur Smith has no restraint placed upon him, Tomlin is going to continue the attrition football, with next to no adjustments... on either side of the ball...

I hope they prove me wrong.

oh lastly, I don't get the hubbub over the GA running back. The dude is slower than Benny Snell.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_AwBnob ... roductions

Here is Pickett's senior year highlight reel from YouTube. The guy has plenty of arm. There is a play around the 3:35 mark where Pickett throws a gorgeous bomb from his own 10 to the opposing 40 right in stride and there are several examples of him throwing the ball with heat to all areas. He has arm strength. Is he Elway or Roethlisberger? No, but dude had NFL level arm strength and some serious creativity. Also threw with beautiful touch back then. Not anymore. All of that was coached out of him by Tomlin and Canada.

You don't draft a player like this and neuter him. It's just unbelievably stupid.

[anpsteel]

I didn't see the lack of arm strength that you did. I saw a QB who was being groomed not to take risks. Don't throw picks. Take the check down. Don't take sacks. A punt is okay. Dump it off. Oh and just so you know, Kenny, we're going to run it on first and second down, likely putting you in a 3rd and 8 THEN we'll ask you to get exactly 8 yards. Throw it underneath and let DJ or George get the rest. Avoid the middle of the field. Don't be throwing it over the top. That's risky.

Tomlin and Canada coached the balls off of Pickett. You watch his college tape and the guy obviously wasn't at the level of Big Ben, but Pickett was a gun slinger who was creative and could throw the ball plenty far and with plenty of heat. You saw some of Pickett's Pitt type play at the end of the 2022 season, when the NHALS was on the line. In 2023, Pickett played like he had been neutered. Once Canada left, Kenny played really well vs Cincy then looked bad against Arizona before he got hurt. Looked like he was still playing it too safe with the football in that game.

Also, when Mason Rudolph took over, he played like he had nothing to lose and didn't give a shit about Tomlin's caveman attrition football and playing it safe. Mason went for it. He knew it was his last go 'round in Pittsburgh and he played really well. Threw the ball inside the numbers!! Regularly!! Tomlin was probably shitting himself.

The one thing I'm pretty sure has taken place this offseason, other than Tomlin being given an edict from upstairs to WIN BIG NOW OR GO FUCK YOURSELF, is that caveman football (even with Arthur Smith in place) is going bye bye. I think this team will attack more on offense than they ever did under Canada and I think Najee Harris sees the writing on the wall. I think both Jaylen Warren and the undrafted dude from Georgia are going to see plenty of action, preparing for Najee's imminent departure.

Kenny would have been smart to stay put, but if he had enough of Tomlin, I wouldn't fucking blame him for one minute.

The particular play I'm referring to was a miscommunication- (I cant recall if it was DJ or Pickens) Kenny is throwing the out and the receiver is running a go.

Pickett is throwing to his right, and hes on the near hash mark... he puts everything he has in the throw. Full wind up, full step into, and release with hips, shoulder and arm. Obviously an incomplete pass, but the ball just sorta stalls. For reference, if Ben throws that, it's at the player Bench. Kenny's pass barely makes the sideline.

I'd post the clip, but I can't find it at the moment.

In respect to the 'caveman' football...

I'm in no way convinced we aren't going to see a revival of 60s & early 70s game plans.

I have zero faith in anything connected to Tomlin's coaching.

As I've explained, I'm sure he's a good guy, and a man you want teaching your kid how to grow... but his decision making fucking blows goats.

So, unless Arthur Smith has no restraint placed upon him, Tomlin is going to continue the attrition football, with next to no adjustments... on either side of the ball...

I hope they prove me wrong.

oh lastly, I don't get the hubbub over the GA running back. The dude is slower than Benny Snell.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_AwBnob ... roductions

Here is Pickett's senior year highlight reel from YouTube. The guy has plenty of arm. There is a play around the 3:35 mark where Pickett throws a gorgeous bomb from his own 10 to the opposing 40 right in stride and there are several examples of him throwing the ball with heat to all areas. He has arm strength. Is he Elway or Roethlisberger? No, but dude had NFL level arm strength and some serious creativity. Also threw with beautiful touch back then. Not anymore. All of that was coached out of him by Tomlin and Canada.

You don't draft a player like this and neuter him. It's just unbelievably stupid.

They let him have a chance, with limited restraint, and he turned the ball over like crazy.

Namely due to:
bad decision making
late throws
not enough velocity to hit the much smaller window

and on and on

I'm not a gambler. At all. But I didn't see anything last season, that made me think he can turn it around.

[K_C_]

The particular play I'm referring to was a miscommunication- (I cant recall if it was DJ or Pickens) Kenny is throwing the out and the receiver is running a go.

Pickett is throwing to his right, and hes on the near hash mark... he puts everything he has in the throw. Full wind up, full step into, and release with hips, shoulder and arm. Obviously an incomplete pass, but the ball just sorta stalls. For reference, if Ben throws that, it's at the player Bench. Kenny's pass barely makes the sideline.

I'd post the clip, but I can't find it at the moment.

In respect to the 'caveman' football...

I'm in no way convinced we aren't going to see a revival of 60s & early 70s game plans.

I have zero faith in anything connected to Tomlin's coaching.

As I've explained, I'm sure he's a good guy, and a man you want teaching your kid how to grow... but his decision making fucking blows goats.

So, unless Arthur Smith has no restraint placed upon him, Tomlin is going to continue the attrition football, with next to no adjustments... on either side of the ball...

I hope they prove me wrong.

oh lastly, I don't get the hubbub over the GA running back. The dude is slower than Benny Snell.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_AwBnob ... roductions

Here is Pickett's senior year highlight reel from YouTube. The guy has plenty of arm. There is a play around the 3:35 mark where Pickett throws a gorgeous bomb from his own 10 to the opposing 40 right in stride and there are several examples of him throwing the ball with heat to all areas. He has arm strength. Is he Elway or Roethlisberger? No, but dude had NFL level arm strength and some serious creativity. Also threw with beautiful touch back then. Not anymore. All of that was coached out of him by Tomlin and Canada.

You don't draft a player like this and neuter him. It's just unbelievably stupid.

They let him have a chance, with limited restraint, and he turned the ball over like crazy.

Namely due to:
bad decision making
late throws
not enough velocity to hit the much smaller window

and on and on

I'm not a gambler. At all. But I didn't see anything last season, that made me think he can turn it around.

You must be talking about when Pickett first replaced Trubisky in 2022. Yep, he turned it over like crazy while facing a murderer's row of high level NFL teams, after Mitch was brutally awful to begin that season....but slowly, Pickett stopped turning it over, nearly completely. The Steelers also started winning, finishing 7-2 down the stretch to save Cool Shades' NHALS.

Nah, turnovers weren't Kenny's downfall. At all. Not putting the ball in the end zone enough was what did Pickett in and Kenny didn't put the ball in the end zone enough because he was afraid to take chances.....and I'm 100% certain that Canada and Tomlin had drummed into Pickett's skull what I wrote earlier. To take care of the ball. Field goals and punts are fine, etc.

Trubisky was a human turnover machine and even though Kenny wasn't impressive by any stretch, the Steelers were in the playoffs when Pickett got injured. Mitch took them out of the playoff hunt all by himself (quite the accomplishment) and then Mason saved the day and the NHALS.

As for Pickett being able to turn it around, with the right coordinator, head coach and supporting cast, he absolutely could become a very good NFL QB, but I'm afraid dude got dealt a bad hand of cards landing in Pittsburgh with Canada and Tomlin, then forcing his way out of Pittsburgh and into a situation where he has absolutely no chance of being the long term starting QB.

Zero. None.

[CoolShades]

Mrs Pickett, your son sucked donkey dick.

He’s gone, Zeke. You are the one emotionally involved. You need to ask yourself why. What happened, did he ruin your fantasy team?

You may want to seek emotional support. Show the therapist where on the doll you dreamed Kenny touched you.

It’s ok.. The bad Kenny Pickett can’t hurt you any longer. Sooner or later, you will have to accept that it wasn’t Pickett who fucked up your mediocre franchise.

The guy that followed Ben (who hated Matt Canada, btw) was always going to be hated unless he was Patrick Mahomes and I’m not sure Patrick Mahomes would have become Patrick Mahomes if Matt Canada and Mike Tomlin were in charge of his development.

These yinzers don’t hate Kenny. They hate the guy that took Ben’s job. I think Wilson and Fields will see a lot less hatred from the masses.

...but I'll add and this simply isn't debatable, that Kenny Pickett is in a far worse situation right now in Philly, than he was in Pittsburgh.

Arguing to the contrary just doesn't make any sense. Philly HAS A FRANCHISE QB. They don't see Kenny Pickett as some kind of "starter in waiting."

They see Kenny as a younger QB they hope develops into a quality backup. That's it. Again, had Kenny not foolishly demanded his way out of Pittsburgh, he would have been behind Russell Wilson. An old QB who very possibly could have been yanked fairly quickly in favor of Pickett. An old QB on a 1 year deal. An old QB whose best days are LONG GONE.

I mean, trying to say Kenny is in a better situation now in Philly, is flat out bullshit.

What is wrong with you? Oh, I’m sorry. I forgot. You know everything. KC is God’s sock. (Or maybe Mark Madden’s). Now you know what the Eagles plan is for Pickett? Hey genius, we all know the Eagles HAVE A FRANCHISE QB (those capital letters really drove your point home. I didn’t realize Hurts was there). No one said he was a “starter in waiting”. When Pickett was traded, what team didn’t have a franchise QB or plans to draft one? And after you make that list, how many were willing trade partners? The Steelers ultimately controlled where Pickett landed. Pickett knew he wasn’t going to choose where he ended up and he said “trade me” anyway. His time wasting away under Tomlin needed to end. He had the ability to end it, so he did.

I’m not saying Kenny is in a better situation, Kenny is. I happen to agree, but I didn’t make his decision. Don’t you get it? Kenny and his advisers (agent, family, who knows who else he relies on) looked at all the available information and all believed it was better for him to get out of Pittsburgh and away from Tomlin. THAT’S how bad it was. The Steelers have no direction, are in love with Mike Tomlin and NHALS above all else, and did nothing to help him develop in two years. They picked him in the first round and gave him Matt Canada, a garbage Oline, and a season and a half. That’s it. You even admit they destroyed his game. When did Pickett shine? At the end of games, when he was allowed to improvise. Other than that, he was put in a box, and did what he was told. He played tight. Can’t throw an INT! That would upset Cool Shades! But YOU want him to waste at least 2 more years of his rookie contract sitting behind Russell Wilson because he needs to meet your bizarre expectations of being a Steeler and “hope” that Mediocre Mike decides Russ is no longer his bestest buddy? He didn’t come into the league as a 21 year old rookie. He’ll be 26 in June. His career may be dead already, but it most assuredly was dead if he stayed in Pittsburgh behind Wilson and under Tomlin. Tomlin made his decision. Like last year, there was not going to be a competition. Pickett knew it. We all knew it.

You keep stomping your foot and whining about his behavior and how he needed to grow up. He didn’t suck it up in your mind, so fuck him. Shitting on him now is not only your right but obligation. Go ahead. I don’t care, I’m not Pickett’s agent, I don’t know him and I’m not the president of his fan club. It doesn’t hurt my feelings. He’s gone.

Pickett is the standard bearer for the dysfunctional, myopic organization the Steelers have turned into under Tomlin and Deuce, That’s all he is to me, and I’ll root for him to succeed outside of the dysfunction. Kenny may disappear, but I’ll be rooting for him to light it up. That would help shine more light on the fraud Tomlin, and I’ll root for anything that helps remove the cancer that is Mike Tomlin from the Steeler organization.

[zeke5123]

Mrs Pickett, your son sucked donkey dick.

He’s gone, Zeke. You are the one emotionally involved. You need to ask yourself why. What happened, did he ruin your fantasy team?

You may want to seek emotional support. Show the therapist where on the doll you dreamed Kenny touched you.

It’s ok.. The bad Kenny Pickett can’t hurt you any longer. Sooner or later, you will have to accept that it wasn’t Pickett who fucked up your mediocre franchise.

You are the one who spent paragraph after paragraph defending the guy.

[CoolShades]

Mrs Pickett, your son sucked donkey dick.

He’s gone, Zeke. You are the one emotionally involved. You need to ask yourself why. What happened, did he ruin your fantasy team?

You may want to seek emotional support. Show the therapist where on the doll you dreamed Kenny touched you.

It’s ok.. The bad Kenny Pickett can’t hurt you any longer. Sooner or later, you will have to accept that it wasn’t Pickett who fucked up your mediocre franchise.

You are the one who spent paragraph after paragraph defending the guy.

You have reading comprehension issues.

I am not defending Pickett. I’m criticizing Tomlin and the Steelers organization.

[zeke5123]

Mrs Pickett, your son sucked donkey dick.

He’s gone, Zeke. You are the one emotionally involved. You need to ask yourself why. What happened, did he ruin your fantasy team?

You may want to seek emotional support. Show the therapist where on the doll you dreamed Kenny touched you.

It’s ok.. The bad Kenny Pickett can’t hurt you any longer. Sooner or later, you will have to accept that it wasn’t Pickett who fucked up your mediocre franchise.

The guy that followed Ben (who hated Matt Canada, btw) was always going to be hated unless he was Patrick Mahomes and I’m not sure Patrick Mahomes would have become Patrick Mahomes if Matt Canada and Mike Tomlin were in charge of his development.

These yinzers don’t hate Kenny. They hate the guy that took Ben’s job. I think Wilson and Fields will see a lot less hatred from the masses.

...but I'll add and this simply isn't debatable, that Kenny Pickett is in a far worse situation right now in Philly, than he was in Pittsburgh.

Arguing to the contrary just doesn't make any sense. Philly HAS A FRANCHISE QB. They don't see Kenny Pickett as some kind of "starter in waiting."

They see Kenny as a younger QB they hope develops into a quality backup. That's it. Again, had Kenny not foolishly demanded his way out of Pittsburgh, he would have been behind Russell Wilson. An old QB who very possibly could have been yanked fairly quickly in favor of Pickett. An old QB on a 1 year deal. An old QB whose best days are LONG GONE.

I mean, trying to say Kenny is in a better situation now in Philly, is flat out bullshit.

I dislike him because:

1. He was a shitty prospect yet we wasted a first on him.

2. He didn’t do squat in the NFL yet he was treated as-if he was good. There was an unearned support that rubbed me the wrong way.

3. Kenny was a shitty teammate. Quit on his college team. Quit on his pro team.

4. The only Ben related item is that in an effort to avoid cognitive dissonance people tried to trash Ben’s legacy in order to explain why “Kenny wasn’t so bad.” No, Kenny sucked.

Why did you like Kenny? What part of his performance or attitude did you enjoy?

[K_C_]

Why did you like Kenny? What part of his performance or attitude did you enjoy?

I've literally said hundreds of times here that I didn't want Pickett in the first round and was severely disappointed when they drafted him.

That said, once he was drafted, I supported the guy. I believed and still believe, that Pickett could develop into a very good NFL QB. Top tier? Not a chance but a very good one. Kirk Cousins-esque, if you will and things of that nature.

....and as I wrote earlier, Pickett was fucked from day one. Ben hated playing in Matt Canada's uber-conservative offense, where Tomlin and Canada had Ben bore teams into submission for 3 quarters and then in quarter 4, when the Steelers were normally losing, Canada "unleashed" Ben to have him try and save the day. A few times Ben succeeded and a few times he failed. This is a first ballot Hall of Famer we're talking about and they neutered his ass.

Imagine being a rookie thrown into this offensive offense. That was Pickett's reality for nearly 2 seasons and he struggled. Also as I wrote earlier, they removed Pickett's natural creative and attacking instincts and Tomlinada trained Pickett to be a hand off monkey who was to play it safe with the ball until late in games, if the defense kept the game close, Pickett was to go out and win it.

His first season, Kenny was very successful in that respect but he struggled in year 2 looking even more afraid of taking chances than he did in year 1. Don't know why that was, but I wish Pickett didn't get hurt in the AZ game so the Steelers could have really seen what he could do without Canada killing the guy's spirit.

Oh well, Kenny got the fuck away from Tomlin but somehow ended up in a worse situation. I feel for the guy.

[K_C_]

He’s gone, Zeke. You are the one emotionally involved. You need to ask yourself why. What happened, did he ruin your fantasy team?

You may want to seek emotional support. Show the therapist where on the doll you dreamed Kenny touched you.

It’s ok.. The bad Kenny Pickett can’t hurt you any longer. Sooner or later, you will have to accept that it wasn’t Pickett who fucked up your mediocre franchise.

The guy that followed Ben (who hated Matt Canada, btw) was always going to be hated unless he was Patrick Mahomes and I’m not sure Patrick Mahomes would have become Patrick Mahomes if Matt Canada and Mike Tomlin were in charge of his development.

These yinzers don’t hate Kenny. They hate the guy that took Ben’s job. I think Wilson and Fields will see a lot less hatred from the masses.

...but I'll add and this simply isn't debatable, that Kenny Pickett is in a far worse situation right now in Philly, than he was in Pittsburgh.

Arguing to the contrary just doesn't make any sense. Philly HAS A FRANCHISE QB. They don't see Kenny Pickett as some kind of "starter in waiting."

They see Kenny as a younger QB they hope develops into a quality backup. That's it. Again, had Kenny not foolishly demanded his way out of Pittsburgh, he would have been behind Russell Wilson. An old QB who very possibly could have been yanked fairly quickly in favor of Pickett. An old QB on a 1 year deal. An old QB whose best days are LONG GONE.

I mean, trying to say Kenny is in a better situation now in Philly, is flat out bullshit.

What is wrong with you? Oh, I’m sorry. I forgot. You know everything. KC is God’s sock. (Or maybe Mark Madden’s). Now you know what the Eagles plan is for Pickett? Hey genius, we all know the Eagles HAVE A FRANCHISE QB (those capital letters really drove your point home. I didn’t realize Hurts was there). No one said he was a “starter in waiting”. When Pickett was traded, what team didn’t have a franchise QB or plans to draft one? And after you make that list, how many were willing trade partners? The Steelers ultimately controlled where Pickett landed. Pickett knew he wasn’t going to choose where he ended up and he said “trade me” anyway. His time wasting away under Tomlin needed to end. He had the ability to end it, so he did.

I’m not saying Kenny is in a better situation, Kenny is. I happen to agree, but I didn’t make his decision. Don’t you get it? Kenny and his advisers (agent, family, who knows who else he relies on) looked at all the available information and all believed it was better for him to get out of Pittsburgh and away from Tomlin. THAT’S how bad it was. The Steelers have no direction, are in love with Mike Tomlin and NHALS above all else, and did nothing to help him develop in two years. They picked him in the first round and gave him Matt Canada, a garbage Oline, and a season and a half. That’s it. You even admit they destroyed his game. When did Pickett shine? At the end of games, when he was allowed to improvise. Other than that, he was put in a box, and did what he was told. He played tight. Can’t throw an INT! That would upset Cool Shades! But YOU want him to waste at least 2 more years of his rookie contract sitting behind Russell Wilson because he needs to meet your bizarre expectations of being a Steeler and “hope” that Mediocre Mike decides Russ is no longer his bestest buddy? He didn’t come into the league as a 21 year old rookie. He’ll be 26 in June. His career may be dead already, but it most assuredly was dead if he stayed in Pittsburgh behind Wilson and under Tomlin. Tomlin made his decision. Like last year, there was not going to be a competition. Pickett knew it. We all knew it.

You keep stomping your foot and whining about his behavior and how he needed to grow up. He didn’t suck it up in your mind, so fuck him. Shitting on him now is not only your right but obligation. Go ahead. I don’t care, I’m not Pickett’s agent, I don’t know him and I’m not the president of his fan club. It doesn’t hurt my feelings. He’s gone.

Pickett is the standard bearer for the dysfunctional, myopic organization the Steelers have turned into under Tomlin and Deuce, That’s all he is to me, and I’ll root for him to succeed outside of the dysfunction. Kenny may disappear, but I’ll be rooting for him to light it up. That would help shine more light on the fraud Tomlin, and I’ll root for anything that helps remove the cancer that is Mike Tomlin from the Steeler organization.

I mean, I get that Kenny wanted to get away from Tomlin and that is a good idea for anybody, but Corky from "Life Goes On" or anyone with a working brain could see that Philly's "plan" for Kenny Pickett is for him to back up Jalen Hurts. This isn't rocket science and if somehow Pickett is forced into action because Hurts get hurt and he plays well, Pickett could bring in a decent return via trade.

This discussion really has gone about as far as it needs to. Let's watch the Eagles and discuss "Kenny's role" with the Eagles once the real bullets start flying. He's gonna have a lot of fun watching Jalen Hurts' coat to make sure it doesn't get stolen.

[Gonzo]

maybe finally more recognition seeping through of what Tomlin and Canada (or the previous cast of fuckgoofs at OC) did to the play and style of Big Ben

[.Kodiak]

Let's hope for Kenny's sake the "Pickett Watch" does better than the "Cotch Watch".

[K_C_]

Let's hope for Kenny's sake the "Pickett Watch" does better than the "Cotch Watch".

I think the Cotch Watch actually killed former poster Iron City.

He could not handle Cotchery's 10 TD catch season after swearing he'd do nothing.

The Cotch Watch was entertaining as all fuck and I don't think there will be a Kenny Watch because Kenny very likely won't see the field in 2024.

When the Steelers send you packing, they seem to like to find a way to say; "Fuck You" out the door. Ask Diontae Johnson. He's gonna have a great time in Carolina.

A DJ Watch seems like a much better idea than a Kenny Watch.

[.Kodiak]

Let's hope for Kenny's sake the "Pickett Watch" does better than the "Cotch Watch".

I think the Cotch Watch actually killed former poster Iron City.

Hmmm, I remember the "Cotch Watch" coming AFTER his 10 TD season, when he wasn't extended. In the two years after, he caught 4 TDs and was out of the league.

LOL, it's coming back to me now..."HOW ARE WE GOING TO REPLACE 10 TDS?!? WHO?!?!?". Ben had a career year that year, 32 TDs and nearly 5000 yards....So I guess Ben's answer to your question was "whoever I throw the ball to".

[K_C_]

Let's hope for Kenny's sake the "Pickett Watch" does better than the "Cotch Watch".

I think the Cotch Watch actually killed former poster Iron City.

Hmmm, I remember the "Cotch Watch" coming AFTER his 10 TD season, when he wasn't extended. In the two years after, he caught 4 TDs and was out of the league.

LOL, it's coming back to me now..."HOW ARE WE GOING TO REPLACE 10 TDS?!? WHO?!?!?". Ben had a career year that year, 32 TDs and nearly 5000 yards....So I guess Ben's answer to your question was "whoever I throw the ball to".

Well, we remember it real, real differently.

The Cotch Watch term wasn't coined by me. I believe it was coined by our esteemed poster, @Jizz Mop (he will have to confirm) after IC and I were going at it about Cotchery when he first landed in Pittsburgh. IC of course telling me Cotchery was washed and wouldn't do anything. We settled on a number for TD catches that Cotch would have.

That number was 7 and IC and I had a bet.

THAT is when the Cotch Watch was created....and the rest was history, as they say. I don't think IC's heart could take what happened next and dude really didn't know whether to shit or wind his watch. This is the same guy who said that we nailed the Jarvis Jones pick because Jarvis "was a football player." You see, when I'm wrong I happily admit it. I couldn't give a flying fuck if I make a prediction or believe a player will emerge and it doesn't happen. Oh the fuck well. Some folks, like IC for instance, REALLY cannot handle being wrong. That's why the Cotch Watch was so funny. Watching him melt down.



I was definitely pissed that Cotchery wasn't re-signed by the Steelers but also wasn't enormously surprised, because he was an older player and wanted to cash in on one helluva nice season in Pittsburgh.

Was I wrong that Cotch left and Ben still had a good season? I guess. Somehow....I'll muddle through.

[.Kodiak]

No, I distinctly remember an INCESSANT number of "how we going to replace 10 TDS?!?!?!?!!?" posts. You had no idea who he was until that 10 TD season. Man, you really must be getting senile - you only jumped on his nuts after he was gone.

The Cotch-watch was the origin of the "nut-hugger" posts you've been, and continue to be, mocked with.

[CoolShades]

I mean, I get that Kenny wanted to get away from Tomlin and that is a good idea for anybody, but Corky from "Life Goes On" or anyone with a working brain could see that Philly's "plan" for Kenny Pickett is for him to back up Jalen Hurts. This isn't rocket science and if somehow Pickett is forced into action because Hurts get hurt and he plays well, Pickett could bring in a decent return via trade.

This is your “gotcha”? That the Eagles plan is for Kenny to back up Hurts? Jesus... no shit. Are you honestly suggesting that anyone thought otherwise? You think ANYONE thought they brought Pickett in to challenge Hurts? C’mon.

Backup is their short term plan. But they aren’t attached to him, and will trade him in a heartbeat if the opportunity presents itself. They can also cut him if he’s terrible in camp. They don’t have a number 1 invested in him (they have almost nothing invested in him), so nothing is guaranteed to Pickett. Again, that’s how bad he saw his situation in Pittsburgh. As long as Tomlin is there, there was no worse place for his career than to stay and rot with the Steelers.

In any event, I’ll be surprised if Pickett is in Philadelphia after next season. He got away from Tomlin. That was step one. Step two will be to find another home with a team in need of a QB and a coach who thinks he can work in his system. There were teams interested in Pickett and coaches who thought he could work in their offense in 2022. He won’t cost much to obtain. The Eagles aren’t going to screw him like the Steelers did in a trade. They will move him for the right offer and not think twice. Will they get a trade offer for Pickett? Who knows. I do hope he gets another chance though, and lands in a good place.

This discussion really has gone about as far as it needs to.

We finally agree on something. (We also agree on Pickett being doomed by being drafted and stuck in the Canada/Tomlin vortex of offensive incompetence, and Tomlin sucking the life out of Pickett’s game.)

Pickett isn’t the first QB to go to a bad team with a bad system, but seeing every QB fail under Canada (including a HOF Ben) and keeping him anyway after drafting what they believed was their next franchise QB was just brutal to watch and organizational malfeasance. Jibbs should have lost his job for that.

Oh well.

[K_C_]

I mean, I get that Kenny wanted to get away from Tomlin and that is a good idea for anybody, but Corky from "Life Goes On" or anyone with a working brain could see that Philly's "plan" for Kenny Pickett is for him to back up Jalen Hurts. This isn't rocket science and if somehow Pickett is forced into action because Hurts get hurt and he plays well, Pickett could bring in a decent return via trade.

This is your “gotcha”? That the Eagles plan is for Kenny to back up Hurts? Jesus... no shit. Are you honestly suggesting that anyone thought otherwise? You think ANYONE thought they brought Pickett in to challenge Hurts? C’mon.

Backup is their short term plan. But they aren’t attached to him, and will trade him in a heartbeat if the opportunity presents itself. They can also cut him if he’s terrible in camp. They don’t have a number 1 invested in him (they have almost nothing invested in him), so nothing is guaranteed to Pickett. Again, that’s how bad he saw his situation in Pittsburgh. As long as Tomlin is there, there was no worse place for his career than to stay and rot with the Steelers.

In any event, I’ll be surprised if Pickett is in Philadelphia after next season. He got away from Tomlin. That was step one. Step two will be to find another home with a team in need of a QB and a coach who thinks he can work in his system. There were teams interested in Pickett and coaches who thought he could work in their offense in 2022. He won’t cost much to obtain. The Eagles aren’t going to screw him like the Steelers did in a trade. They will move him for the right offer and not think twice. Will they get a trade offer for Pickett? Who knows. I do hope he gets another chance though, and lands in a good place.

This discussion really has gone about as far as it needs to.

We finally agree on something. (We also agree on Pickett being doomed by being drafted and stuck in the Canada/Tomlin vortex of offensive incompetence, and Tomlin sucking the life out of Pickett’s game.)

Pickett isn’t the first QB to go to a bad team with a bad system, but seeing every QB fail under Canada (including a HOF Ben) and keeping him anyway after drafting what they believed was their next franchise QB was just brutal to watch and organizational malfeasance. Jibbs should have lost his job for that.

Oh well.

Just a few points....

1) Kenny is an older QB. Was drafted when he was 25. He needed to make an immediate impact before he quickly became a career backup and that is where he's heading now after demanding a trade out of Pittsburgh. Philly will hang on to him for another 2 years as a back up and then he'll be around 30 when he heads his next destination after watching Hurts' coat for 2 years. While Tomlin is a cunt, if Pickett simply shuts the fuck up and stays put, Kenny is almost guaranteed the starter job in 2025.

2) Let's not pretend Kenny often wasn't his own worst enemy. Dude played like shit in too many of his opportunities. The cum shot was his final game vs AZ, coming off one of his better performances vs Cincy. The game vs AZ, where Pickett got hurt trying to run for the goal line when he had a wide open receiver to his left, sums up Kenny's Steeler career in a nutshell: Failure to Launch.

3) Mason Rudolph showed Pickett what to do with what could be your final opportunity. Even with Tomlin as his head coach, Mason knew he would probably be out of the league if he didn't perform and he didn't play like a deer in headlights like Pickett. No sir. Mason played great to finish the season and then moved on for his next opportunity in Tennessee. Don't be surprised if Mason is the starter if young Will Levis struggles. Levis has yet to prove himself to be a franchise QB so Mason still might have a shot. He's in a much, much better situation than Kenny Pickett, who is immediately buried beneath a real franchise QB.

Nice work, KP8.

[Deebo]

KP is the new Minshew. That's the level of success I think he'll have= career backup

[Jobu]

KP is the new Minshew. That's the level of success I think he'll have= career backup

I’m thinking he’s more Brandon Weeden minus the baseball career.

[.Kodiak]

62.6% comp, 6.3 YPA, 13 TDs, 13 INTs, rating of 78.8....that's Kenny PIckett's career

63.9%, 7.8 YPA, 8 TDs, 7 INTs, rating of 86.2.....that's Landry Jones career