​Kenny Pickett: ​Pittsburgh Steelers QB clarifies inactive status after victory over ​Seattle Seahawks

NEW DELHI: Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett has addressed the speculation surrounding his inactive status during the team's recent 30-20 win over the Seattle Seahawks. Pickett, who underwent right ankle surgery a month ago, explained that the coaching staff determined he wasn't ready to play, leading to his inactive status.

Contrary to online speculation, Pickett denied any discussions about being a backup quarterback behind Mason Rudolph for the game against the Seahawks. He clarified that the decision was based on the coaching staff's evaluation of his readiness and health.


“There was no talk of me being a backup quarterback this week in terms of being a two,” Pickett stated on Tuesday. “If I was healthy enough to play and the trainers and coaches felt like I looked good enough to play, I was going to start and play, if they believed that I was not, which they believed I was not, was not going to dress and suit up for the game.”

Coach Mike Tomlin had mentioned on Monday that Pickett had been medically cleared but was made inactive due to limited practice reps. Pickett, listed as "questionable," watched from the sideline as Rudolph guided the Steelers' offense to accumulate 468 yards in the victory.

Looking ahead to the upcoming game against the Baltimore Ravens, Pickett acknowledged that Rudolph earned the opportunity to start after delivering strong performances against Cincinnati and Seattle. Pickett expressed his respect for Rudolph and emphasized his role as the backup quarterback, ready to support the team.

“Mason played well when he got in there,” Pickett said. “I have a ton of respect for Mason (with) everything he’s done and what our team has been doing. So now my job that I’m back healthy is to be the backup. If something happens, if he goes down, be ready to go and continue to support him the way I’ve been.”

As for the long-term implications of Rudolph's play, Pickett noted that it's too early to predict and emphasized taking things day by day and week by week. Pickett, under contract for at least two more seasons, and Rudolph, set to become a free agent in March, are focused on the immediate challenges, particularly the Steelers' playoff aspirations.

The Steelers, with a 9-7 record, face the AFC North champion Ravens on Saturday, aiming to secure a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. Pickett is expected to serve as the backup in this critical matchup.