Kenny Pickett isn’t just another name in the Cleveland Browns’ crowded quarterback room—he’s a serious contender aiming to prove his worth. As the Browns head into training camp on July 22, Pickett is locked in a four-way quarterback competition alongside Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders. And despite a rocky start, he’s far from out of the race.
Browns QB Battle: Pickett vs. Flacco, Sanders, Gabriel
Acquired via a March trade with the Eagles, Pickett joined the Browns with a chip on his shoulder and something to prove. Though spring practices didn’t allow him to showcase his full athletic toolkit, training camp and preseason are expected to highlight the traits that made him a first-round pick in 2022.
The offseason drills focused heavily on pocket passing and play-action—areas that favored Flacco and Sanders. But Pickett and Gabriel bore the brunt of implementing new offensive concepts, often running more complex plays without the benefit of rhythm or simplicity. This limited Pickett’s ability to stand out early, but that’s about to change.
Pickett’s Mobility: A Game-Changer in Stefanski’s Offense
What separates Pickett from the competition is his mobility and play-extension ability. As Kevin Stefanski reintroduces a dynamic offense, Pickett’s strength in running RPOs, bootlegs, and improvisational plays could be pivotal. His experience as a dual-threat quarterback offers unpredictability—something the Browns are eager to inject into their offense.
In his two seasons with the Steelers, Pickett compiled a 14-10 record as a starter. Despite modest touchdown production (13 in 24 starts), he protected the ball well, especially in his second season when he threw only four interceptions in 12 games. Compared to Flacco’s nine turnovers in just four starts last year, Pickett’s ball security is a major plus.
Explosive Potential with Browns’ Weapons
This year, Pickett is surrounded by an explosive supporting cast. Pro Bowl talents like Jerry Jeudy, David Njoku, and Diontae Johnson (his former Steelers teammate) provide him with an arsenal of playmakers. If Johnson buys into the Browns’ system, the offense could reach new heights.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski and GM Andrew Berry have expressed faith in Pickett’s growth and fit in the revamped offense. Berry noted Pickett’s high football IQ, mobility, and decision-making as reasons to believe in his resurgence.
“There’s a credible path for him to take a step forward,” Berry said. “You’ve seen it with other first-round QBs like Jared Goff and Baker Mayfield—guys who thrive in better environments.”
Comeback Credentials and Leadership Qualities
What Pickett may lack in highlight-reel stats, he makes up for with clutch performances. In just 25 starts, he’s already led six fourth-quarter comebacks and seven game-winning drives—an impressive stat compared to Darnold’s numbers over a much longer career.
Pickett credits his preparation and trust in his teammates for his success in crunch time.
“I’ve been a part of great teams. When the moment comes, I’m confident my guys are where they need to be,” he said.
His experience under former NFL quarterback Kellen Moore in Philadelphia and alongside Jalen Hurts has helped him refine his game. Now, with a full offseason under his belt and a more QB-friendly system, Pickett is eyeing a breakout season in Cleveland.
The Final Test: Preseason and Joint Practices
All eyes will be on Pickett during joint practices with the Eagles on August 13 and 14 and the preseason opener on August 16. These moments will offer the clearest glimpse into whether Pickett can live up to his first-round billing and secure the Browns’ starting job.
As Pickett puts it:
“I’m not going there to hang out. I want to go play.”
And soon enough, the Browns—and the rest of the NFL—will find out if Kenny Pickett is ready to lead.
