The Steelers drafted the hometown kid, and he reacted accordingly.
Kenny Pickett burst into tears when the Steelers selected him with the No. 20 overall pick. It’s apparent the Pittsburgh quarterback is about to live his dream. He will play pro football in the same city where he’s called home for the last five years.
Though Pickett is from New Jersey, it’s clear he has a special place for Pittsburgh in his heart.
The Steelers saved Pickett and his family from an uncomfortable draft night. Despite being considered the best quarterback in the class, Pickett stayed on the board through most of the first round.
When the Lions were on the clock for the No. 12 overall pick, ESPN’s cameras panned to Pickett and his family. They all looked downtrodden and depressed — especially his fiancée, Princeton soccer player Amy Paternoster.
The shot harkened back memories of Aaron Rodgers and Johnny Manziel on their draft nights.
Of course, Rodgers wound up being one of the best quarterbacks to ever play, so getting passed over on draft night doesn’t translate to a disappointing career. Pickett was incredible last season, completing 67.2 percent of his passes for 4.319 yards and 42 touchdowns.
Those are video game numbers.
And now, Pickett will presumably compete with Mitch Trubisky for the Steelers’ starting job. The opportunity was worth the wait.