Eagles QB Kenny Pickett opens up about overcoming adversity after being traded by Steelers

07-11-2024
3 min read
Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

The Philadelphia Eagles acquired quarterback Kenny Pickett from the Pittsburgh Steelers in March. They traded two seventh-round picks and swapped a third round pick for a fourth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft in exchange for the former first-round quarterback.

The Steelers signed free agent quarterback Russell Wilson to kick off free agency. Pickett reportedly felt like he had no chance of starting, so requested to be traded. 

Now, just weeks ahead of training camp, Pickett spoke at the Champion Mindset Symposium at Shore Regional High School in New Jersey about overcoming doubt and adversity.

“The world has enough doubters,” Pickett said. “There’s plenty of people that are doubting. That’s probably the majority of people out there. In the media, fanbase, or whatever it may be. But those special people that I was talking about earlier - whether it’s coaches, family members - if you turn your mind around and try to prove them right… you’ll be in a more positive mindset.”

Pickett spoke to Ben Istvan of The Philadelphia Inquirer about his move across Pennsylvania.

“Change is a great thing,” said Pickett. “I’m going through it right now. I was in Pittsburgh for seven years and now I’m over in Philadelphia. A lot of people probably have some negative views on change, but that’s really just your outlook on it. I think if you keep a positive mindset, it’ll all work out for the better.”