Steelers Kenny Pickett Era Ends: What's Next For Team At Quarterback

PITTSBURGH, PA — The Steelers on Friday traded former starting quarterback Kenny Pickett to the Philadelphia Eagles. So now what?

The Steelers have only former Seattle Seahawks and Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson on the roster at the moment.

A first-round draft pick from the University of Pittsburgh in 2022, Pickett brings little back in return from the Eagles. The Steelers will receive a third-round pick (number 98 overall) and two 2025 seventh-round (number 120 overall). The Eagles also will receive a fourth-round pick.

Wilson, 35, threw for 26 touchdowns and eight interceptions last season for the Denver Broncos last season. Pickett had six touchdowns and four interceptions before being injured and then benched in favor of former third-string quarterback Mason Rudolph, who led the team to the playoffs.

So what's next for the Steelers?

One possibility for the team for a backup quarterback is Ryan Tannehill, the former Tennessee Titan who has worked with new Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith in the past.

Another is Chicago Bears starting quarterback Justin Fields. The Bears have the first pick in next month NFL's draft and are expected to take a quarterback.

The Steelers now also are likely to select one or more quarterbacks in the NFL Draft.