Eagles News: Kenny Pickett ranked among top backup QBs in NFL

The Eagles have long prioritized the backup quarterback position, as evidenced by Nick Foles bringing Philadelphia its first Super Bowl title in 2017. This season will be no different.

After Marcus Mariota walked in free agency, Philadelphia needed a new backup for starter Jalen Hurts. Once the Steelers brought in Russel Wilson, that spelled the end of Kenny Pickett‘s tenure in Pittsburgh, and the Eagles were happy to take him.

In Pickett, Philadelphia got a former first-round pick with 24 career starts who’s under contract for the next two seasons.

CBS Sports recently released their top-10 QB situations heading into 2024 and have the eagles ranked third behind Kansas City and Minnesota.

Pickett was more scrappy than reliable in two sluggish seasons with the Steelers, and it’s unclear if the 2022 first-round pick has the passing zip to ever command No. 1 duties again. But his surroundings are exceedingly superior in Philadelphia, where he’ll enjoy Pro Bowlers at basically every supporting spot.

He also shares one thing in common with starter Jalen Hurts: Durability concerns notwithstanding, he’s shown a knack for gutsy throws in critical spots, making him a potential fan favorite in his home area.

From a financial standpoint, Pickett is owed just $4.6M in guaranteed money over the next two years and has a fifth-year option in 2026 — a better cap investment than spending $5M+ on a veteran QB.

Pickett gives the Eagles a solid insurance policy with starting experience behind Hurts if needed. We don’t expect Pickett to be the Eagles’ backup for years to come, but we do expect him to be a viable substitute who can win games in a pinch if Hurts misses time for any reason.

PICKETT DART! 🎯 @steelers answer right back in Vegas 😮

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— NFL (@NFL) September 25, 2023