Raiders Acquire Quarterback to Address Backup role

The Las Vegas Raiders have acquired quarterback Kenny Pickett from the Cleveland Browns, according to a report by ESPN’s Adam Schefter‍ on August 26,⁤ 2024.‍ The move comes in response to a‌ season-ending wrist​ injury sustained by Raiders​ backup quarterback Aidan ‍O’Connell, who will⁢ begin the season on⁢ injured reserve.

Pickett’s Journey:​ From Steelers First-Rounder to Super Bowl​ Champion

Pickett, originally selected 20th overall by the⁣ Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2022 NFL Draft,⁢ struggled⁣ to establish himself ​as a consistent starter. Despite a 15-10 record over two seasons with the Steelers,totaling 13 touchdowns and 4,474 passing yards,he was traded to​ the Philadelphia Eagles ‍prior to the 2024 season.

In a⁣ surprising turn,⁢ Pickett contributed to a championship run with‍ the Eagles, winning Super Bowl LIX as the backup to Jalen Hurts. He appeared in five regular-season games, completing passes ⁢for 291 yards ‍and two touchdowns.

Browns Acquisition and Subsequent Trade

The Cleveland Browns acquired Pickett during the off-season, but their plans at quarterback shifted with the drafting of Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders in the 2025 NFL Draft, and ⁢also the signing of veteran ⁢Joe Flacco. This created an prospect for pickett​ to find a new home where he can compete for playing time.