Kenny Pickett Scouting Report by J.T.
Kenny Pickett
Quarterback
Pittsburgh
6’ 3” 220 pounds
Background
Pickett comes from a family of athletes as his mom and sister played college soccer, while his dad was an All-American linebacker at Shippensburg University. Kenny Pickett played high school football for Ocean Township (NJ). Kenny would throw for over 4,600 yards and 43 touchdowns, and run for 873 yards and 19 touchdowns. Pickett would be rated a three-star recruit by 247Sports, Rivals and ESPN. Kenny would see action in four games as a freshman at Pitt, with his only start being a 24-17 victory over #2 Miami,Fla in which he threw a touchdown, and added two more on the ground. Kenny would be the Panthers starter 2018-2021. Kenny, probably would have been a 4th round or later pick if he came out after his senior season. Pickett returned as a super-senior due to the pandemic and made the right choice. Kenny Pickett has broken just about all the Panthers quarterback records, and now has himself set up as a Heisman Trophy Candidate and a probable first round pick.
Pros (+)
+ Navigates the pocket well, always moving
+ Arm strength, can make all throws in all windows
+ Poise, does not overreact
+ Feels pressure well, knows when to run
+ Feet and shoulders always square.
Weaknesses (-)
Can try and do too much at times. Holding onto the ball longer than needed to try and make a big play
Consistency on ball placement. Has improved in 2021, but still needs worked on
Can have tunnel vison at times and lock in on one receiver early
Throws off back foot at times more than he needs to.
24-year-old rookie may be a negative in some scouts’ eyes.
Overall
Kenny Pickett took a chance by coming back in 2021, and it paid off as well as I have seen in a long time. Kenny should be a first-round pick going as high as Top 10. Pickett is mature enough to step into an NFL system and perform.