Steelers General Manager Statement Over His Offence Line At NFL Scouting Combine Will Blow Your Mind.
The Steelers have been rumored to be interested in signing or trading for every available quarterback this offseason. So, who are they actually in on?
The quick answer is Kenny Pickett, Pittsburgh’s first-round pick in 2022. General manager Omar Khan said he has “full faith” in the 25-year-old on Thursday.
“We are excited about Kenny and excited about the impact that Arthur Smith is going to have on the offense,” Khan told reporters at the NFL Scouting Combine.
That was shocking for some fans to hear after Pickett has thrown just 13 touchdowns and 13 interceptions in 25 games.
However, even if Khan felt otherwise about Pickett, he would never knock him as he’s the only quarterback under contract with the Steelers in 2024.
Pittsburgh has consistently said it plans on bringing in competition for Pickett and one name to watch is Mason Rudolph, a third-round pick by the Steelers in 2018.
Khan said he has contacted Rudolph’s agent and told them the team “wants him to be a part of the process.”
Rudolph started the season’s final four games, including its wild-card matchup against the Bills, and threw for 945 yards, five touchdowns and only one interception.
There is some belief, however, that Rudolph would prefer to have a fresh start elsewhere. Pittsburgh will be forced to obtain a quarterback or two in free agency and the 2024 NFL Draft if that’s the case.
When asked if he’s had any discussions about quarterbacks such as Bears’ Justin Fields, Broncos’ Russell Wilson and Vikings’ Kirk Cousins, Khan didn’t shut anything down.
“I have an obligation to look at every avenue that’s out there to try to make us a better football team,” Khan said.
The Steelers’ ideal scenario would be heading into training camp with an open competition between Pickett and Rudolph. However, those hoping for a splashier move at the position shouldn’t give up on that dream yet.