Raiders react to Pittsburgh naming Kenny Pickett as starting QB in Saturday’s matchup
Dec 20, 2022, 4:18 PM
PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - DECEMBER 11: Kenny Pickett #8 of the Pittsburgh Steelers runs with the ball as Jason Pierre-Paul #4 of the Baltimore Ravens chases during the first quarter of the game at Acrisure Stadium on December 11, 2022 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)
(Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)
On Tuesday, Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin named essentially named Kenny Pickett as the team’s starting quarterback for Sunday’s matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders.
“As far as Kenny Pickett, I think the concussion component of where he is is behind us,” Tomlin said during his press conference.” I think he has to check a box procedurally, but if we were to practice today, he would be a full participant.”
When a reporter followed up that statement and asked coach Tomlin if he plans to start Pickett, the Steelers coach said yes.
Come for Mike Tomlin saying Kenny Pickett will start on Saturday against the Raiders, stay for the Lolol moment pic.twitter.com/nIke3S7QPN
— Mike DeFabo (@MikeDeFabo) December 20, 2022
Pickett has been in the NFL’s concussion protocol since Week 14.
Now that they know who they’re facing, the Raiders can plan accordingly. While talking to the media Tuesday, defensive coordinator Patrick Graham said most coaches are dealing with injuries and they, as a team, have to prepare for everyone on the opposing roster.
“Similar skill sets, [Mason] Rudolph is a little bit different than those guys, but similar skill sets in terms of being able to make plays with their feet on the move. They got a whole bunch of other guys to worry about as well. From the running back to the o-line who’s playing really well together. The receivers, tight end is a good player. The back, he’s one of the best in the league, but we always take that into consideration each week.”
