As the NFL season approaches its biggest stage, with the Super Bowl on the horizon, one player who is looking ahead with great anticipation is Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett. While the Steelers won’t be competing for the Lombardi Trophy this season, Pickett has been an integral part of the team’s resurgence over the past year, and his thoughts on the franchise’s future carry immense weight as he embarks on what promises to be a long and exciting career.
Pickett’s journey as the Steelers’ starting quarterback has been filled with both challenges and triumphs, but heading into the offseason, there’s a palpable sense of optimism about what the future holds for him and the team. In an exclusive interview just ahead of the Super Bowl, Pickett shared his thoughts on the current state of the Steelers, what he’s learned during his first two seasons in the NFL, and how he envisions the future of Pittsburgh football.
#### The Growing Confidence in Kenny Pickett
When the Steelers drafted Kenny Pickett in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, there was immediate pressure on him to succeed. The Steelers have always prided themselves on their rich history of outstanding quarterbacks—starting with the legendary Terry Bradshaw, and later Ben Roethlisberger, who led the team to two Super Bowl titles. Following Big Ben’s retirement after the 2021 season, Pittsburgh was left searching for a new face to lead the franchise.
Pickett, a Pittsburgh native who played his college ball at the University of Pittsburgh, seemed like a natural fit. But as any rookie quarterback knows, the transition to the NFL can be daunting. Pickett faced early growing pains, especially as he learned the intricacies of an offense led by head coach Mike Tomlin and offensive coordinator Matt Canada.
However, by the end of his rookie season, it was clear that Pickett had the tools to be successful. His poise in the pocket, ability to make quick decisions, and knack for leading late-game comebacks showed that he was growing into the role. His 2022 season provided hope that the Steelers had found their long-term quarterback.
Heading into his second season, the expectations were higher. After a full offseason of preparation, Pickett seemed more comfortable with the playbook, his receivers, and his offensive line. By the middle of the 2023 season, it was clear: Pickett was ready to take the next step.
In the interview before the Super Bowl, Pickett shared his growing confidence in himself and his team. “I feel a lot more comfortable now,” Pickett said. “Having a full year under my belt has really helped me understand the speed of the game and the adjustments that need to be made. I’ve learned so much, and I’m just really excited about where this team is heading.”
While he acknowledged the mistakes and areas where he needs to improve, Pickett expressed pride in the team’s progress. The Steelers’ offense was no longer one-dimensional, and Pickett’s connection with his wide receivers—most notably rookie George Pickens and veteran Diontae Johnson—was flourishing. “There’s a great energy around this team,” Pickett said. “We’re a young group, and we’re still figuring things out. But I’m confident we can compete with anyone.”
#### The Steelers’ Identity and Culture
One of the most talked-about aspects of the Pittsburgh Steelers is the team’s culture—rooted in hard work, toughness, and a blue-collar mentality that has defined the franchise for decades. While the team has faced ups and downs in recent years, the commitment to excellence and accountability remains unwavering. Under the leadership of Mike Tomlin, one of the NFL’s longest-tenured and most respected head coaches, the Steelers have maintained their identity, even as the league has evolved.
Pickett was quick to highlight how the Steelers’ culture has shaped his approach to the game. “Mike Tomlin is a guy who holds you to a high standard,” Pickett explained. “He’s always pushing us to get better, no matter what. And that mentality starts at the top with him. When you’re part of this organization, you’re expected to be your best every day. That’s something I’ve really embraced.”
Pickett also credited his teammates for their leadership in helping him grow as a quarterback. He specifically mentioned the influence of veteran players like Cam Heyward and T.J. Watt, who have consistently set the tone on both sides of the ball. “Cam and T.J. are guys who show up every day and lead by example,” Pickett said. “They’ve been in the league for a long time, and they’ve seen it all. They’ve taught me a lot about how to handle the ups and downs of an NFL season.”
In many ways, Pickett’s leadership style mirrors the Steelers’ ethos. While he may not yet be the vocal leader that Roethlisberger was during his tenure, Pickett has shown that he leads through his actions, his preparation, and his ability to make plays when the game is on the line. “I want to be someone who my teammates can count on,” Pickett said. “I know that I’m still young, and I’ve got a lot to prove, but I believe in this team, and I believe in what we’re building here.”
#### Looking Ahead: Super Bowl Aspirations
While the Steelers may not have made it to the Super Bowl this season, Pickett’s thoughts on the future reflect a clear vision of success. He’s well aware that the Steelers are in the midst of a rebuild, but he’s also confident that they’re on the right path. “We’re building something special,” Pickett said. “We’ve got a great mix of veterans and young guys, and I think we’re starting to gel together. It’s a process, but I know we’ve got what it takes to get back to championship contention.”
Pickett emphasized that his ultimate goal is to bring a Super Bowl title to Pittsburgh. “I grew up watching the Steelers win championships,” he said. “I know how much this city values winning, and I’m doing everything I can to help bring that success back. I want to win a Super Bowl with this team, and that’s what we’re all working toward.”
In terms of what the Steelers need to do to take that next step, Pickett highlighted several areas for improvement. “We’ve got to continue to build chemistry on offense, especially in the passing game,” he noted. “We’ve got to make sure we’re on the same page, and we’ve got to protect the ball. Defensively, we’ve got some of the best playmakers in the league, and we just need to make sure we’re all working together.”
Pickett’s confidence is rooted in the belief that the Steelers have the pieces in place to compete at a high level. With a top-tier defense, an improving offense, and a quarterback who is just beginning to scratch the surface of his potential, the Steelers have the foundation to make another run at Super Bowl glory.
#### The Steeler Nation: The Heartbeat of the Team
Of course, no conversation about the Pittsburgh Steelers would be complete without mentioning the Steeler Nation—one of the most passionate and dedicated fanbases in sports. Pickett spoke with great appreciation for the fans who have supported him throughout his journey. “The Steeler Nation is unmatched,” he said. “They’ve been behind me since day one, and that’s something I’ll never take for granted. Their energy is incredible, and they make it all worth it.”
As Pickett looks to the future, the Steeler Nation is undoubtedly looking to him as the leader who can bring the franchise back to its former glory. And while the road to a Super Bowl will be difficult, there’s no question that with Pickett at the helm, the Steelers are poised to make a return to the top of the NFL.
#### Conclusion
Kenny Pickett’s thoughts on the Steelers before the Super Bowl are a reflection of his maturity, his growth as a quarterback, and his unwavering belief in the potential of his team. With the right leadership, preparation, and support from his teammates, Pickett is confident that the Steelers will once again return to the NFL’s pinnacle. And while the journey may take time, there’s no doubt that the future of Pittsburgh Steelers football is in good hands with Pickett at the helm. The Super Bowl may not be in the cards this year, but with Pickett’s determination and the strength of the Steelers’ culture, the Lombardi Trophy may just be within reach in the years to come.
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