The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially turned over a new leaf following the expected signing of Russell Wilson
There was a time not so long ago when the Pittsburgh Steelers would have stood by Kenny Pickett come hell or high water. A first-round pick at arguably the most important position in all of pro sports, Pittsburgh's traditionalism suggests that Pickett would get through his rookie contract at least. And while that may still […]
There was a time not so long ago when the Pittsburgh Steelers would have stood by Kenny Pickett come hell or high water.
A first-round pick at arguably the most important position in all of pro sports, Pittsburgh's traditionalism suggests that Pickett would get through his rookie contract at least.
And while that may still happen, the signing of Russell Wilson doesn't bode well for such a proposition and shows that a new dawn has come in Pittsburgh:
"Rushering" in a new era
Let's be clear here. Wilson is not the unquestioned starter. I have an understanding that he will have to beat out Kenny Pickett in training camp if he wants to be the one calling the signals come September.
However, two things can be true. Pittsburgh still wants Pickett to lead their team and be the starter if capable, but they aren't opposed to upgrading the position where they can, evidenced by the signing of Wilson.
And if Pittsburgh had the utmost confidence in Pickett, a first-round pick from less than two years ago, you wouldn't make this move. And more specifically to Pittsburgh, when you're a franchise known for their loyalty to players, coaches, and personnel members, you especially don't make this move.
But GM Omar Khan has now proved on multiple occasions that the Steelers won't be operating in the fashion in which they are known. That has raised some questions around the league, with some other teams even "red flagging" the Steelers front office.
Now, we'll see who's right in the end. So far Khan has knocked the draft portion of he job out of the park, but he has some swing and misses in free agency when analyzing the releases of players like Mitch Trubisky, Allen Robinson, and Patrick Peterson, along with the trading of Kevin Dotson for a day three pick, who just earned one of the highest positional contracts in NFL history after joining the Rams.
But if Russell Wilson not only beats out Pickett, but then resurrects his career, and more importantly, leads the Steelers to the playoffs and or beyond, all that is forgotten, and the new "Steelers way" will be lauded.
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