Kenny Pickett admits second year in the NFL feels 'a lot' different

A year ago at this time, Kenny Pickett was taking his first reps with the Pittsburgh Steelers during mandatory minicamp. Mitch Trubisky was the heir apparent to Ben Roethlisberger at quarterback and, as a result, Pickett was taking second team reps.

What a difference 12 months make.

Now, Pickett is set to be the starter after taking the role from Trubisky part-way through the 2022 season. In 13 games, including 12 starts, the former Pitt standout threw for 2,404 yards and seven touchdowns as part of his solid rookie campaign.

With a full season under his belt, Pickett is getting first team reps this time around, and he’s noticed a big difference from last offseason.

“A lot,” Pickett said of how much different this summer is. “I’m getting a lot more reps than I ever was last year. I feel a lot more comfortable being in the system the second time around, being with these guys for year two. We’re heading in the right direction. I feel that. Just got to keep showing up every day.”

Kenny Pickett: Communication is key to building relationship with OC Matt Canada

In addition to his relationship with the players on the field, Pickett is also growing his bond with offensive coordinator Matt Canada. There’s a comfort that comes with a year of familiarity, especially when it comes in two-minute situations. That’s all part of the process of Pickett’s development, and he knows the most important part of that plan.

“It’s constant communication,” Pickett said. “That’s the key, I think, between a quarterback and the OC. Knowing what he likes, knowing what I like in certain situations. The two-minute’s a big deal, understanding how he likes the flow of the game and what he usually goes with really helps me out. That we have that constant communication, I think, is what’s key.”

Of course, Pickett and the Steelers are in position to build off last year as Pittsburgh went 9-8 to avoid the first sub-.500 season under Mike Tomlin. Pickett also built a strong connection with wide receiver and fellow rookie George Pickens, who had 801 receiving yards and a team-high four touchdowns.

This year, the franchise also got him some more help up front by selecting former Georgia offensive tackle Broderick Jones in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft. The Steelers will start the 2023 campaign Sept. 10 against the San Francisco 49ers.