Report: Steelers QB Kenny Pickett MRI reveals no 'serious damage' to knee

While no injury is ever good, the Pittsburgh Steelers did receive some positive news on Kenny Pickett. The second-year quarterback did not suffer any serious damage after suffering a knee injury.

Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported on Monday that an MRI revealed that Pickett did not suffer anything serious regarding the knee injury. At this time, it remains unclear how much time he could miss.

Pickett sustained the injury in Pittsburgh’s 30-6 loss to the Houston Texans on Sunday. He completed 15-of-23 passes for 114 yards with no touchdowns and an interception before his exit. Mitch Trubisky finished the game for the Steelers.

Pickett left the game in the third quarter and needed assistance off the field. He was ruled out shortly after exiting the contest.

Steelers QB Kenny Pickett had an MRI on his knee and I’m told there isn’t any serious damage, per league sources. A relief for Pittsburgh.
No word on how much time he’s expected to miss.
(@gerrydulac 1st)

— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) October 2, 2023

After Russini’s initial report, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport provided a more specific update on the situation.

“Steelers QB Kenny Pickett suffered a bone bruise in his knee that could lead to a short-term absence,” Rapoport reported. “The door is open for Pickett, who also has a muscle strain, to play this week, but the team may be smart with a bye in Week 6.”

#Steelers QB Kenny Pickett suffered a bone bruise in his knee that could lead to a short-term absence, per me and @MikeGarafolo. The door is open for Pickett, who also has a muscle strain, to play this week, but the team may be smart with a bye in Week 6. pic.twitter.com/SlbY7FaIa8

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 2, 2023

We’ll learn more about Pickett’s status throughout the week as Sunday approaches. But it’s unlikely that Pittsburgh pushes the quarterback to return too quickly. There’s no sense in rushing him back from injury this early in the year.

Kenny Pickett’s return date unclear

At 2-2 and with a division showdown against Baltimore ahead, Pickett might be tempted to return to the field this week, if he’s cleared. Is that the smartest decision for the young quarterback, though?

Following Sunday’s game against the Ravens, the Steelers have a Week 6 bye before returning to action against the Rams. That would give Pickett multiple weeks to get back — or at least close — to full strength before taking another snap.

So, we’ll see what the team decides, if he is able to go soon.

Through four games, Pickett has thrown for 803 yards with four touchdowns and four interceptions. The Steelers own a 2-2 record, losing the opener to the 49ers and last weekend’s game to the Texans. They defeated the Browns and Raiders to get the two victories.

Sunday’s kickoff between the Steelers and Ravens is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET with coverage on CBS. Baltimore currently sits atop the AFC North standings at 3-1. Cleveland and Pittsburgh are each at 2-2.