For the second consecutive offseason, quarterback Kenny Pickett has found himself on the move.
NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport broke the news on March 10 that the Philadelphia Eagles have agreed to trade Pickett to the Cleveland Browns. In exchange, the Eagles will receive backup quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson along with a fifth-round draft pick.
This deal has significant implications for the Pittsburgh Steelers, who originally drafted Pickett in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. If no further trades or roster changes occur, the Steelers will now have to face their former quarterback twice during the 2025 NFL season when they go up against their AFC North rivals.
However, rather than dreading those matchups, Steelers fans seem to be embracing the idea of Pickett potentially starting against their team. Many took to social media to share their reactions, with some finding humor in the situation. One fan shared a GIF of someone hysterically laughing, writing, “We get to see Kenny Pickett twice a year.” Another fan pointed out the irony of the move, recalling how Browns supporters had mocked Pittsburgh for starting Pickett. “All the Browns fans that laughed at us for having Kenny Pickett as QB1,” they posted, before adding, “Now have Kenny Pickett at QB1.”
Pickett’s arrival in Cleveland presents an interesting dynamic at the quarterback position. While Deshaun Watson is expected to return as the Browns’ starter, injuries have limited him in recent seasons, meaning Pickett could find himself in competition for playing time. If Watson struggles or is sidelined again, Pickett may be called upon to take the reins.
One Steelers fan humorously referenced this possibility by sharing an image of someone licking their lips with the caption, “T.J. Watt learning he gets to face Kenny Pickett twice a year.” The idea of Watt, one of the NFL’s premier pass rushers, lining up against his former teammate has certainly added to the excitement for Steelers supporters.
Pickett already had one opportunity to face the Steelers when Philadelphia played Pittsburgh in December 2024. However, he did not take the field, as he remained on the Eagles’ bench as a backup. That game was played in Philadelphia, meaning Pickett has yet to experience what it’s like to step onto the field in Pittsburgh as an opponent.
Now, with his latest trade to Cleveland, that moment seems inevitable. The stage is set for an intriguing storyline in the 2025 season, with Pickett potentially returning to Acrisure Stadium wearing Browns colors. Whether he starts or remains a backup, his presence on Cleveland’s roster ensures that Steelers fans will be paying close attention when these division rivals collide.
Steelers Social Media Reacts to Eagles Trading Kenny Pickett Back to Bitter Rivals whom they will have to face twice in the season
