Browns Trade for Pickett, Eyes on Quarterback Competition

BEREA, Ohio — The Cleveland Browns are reshaping their quarterback lineup after announcing a trade for Kenny Pickett on Wednesday. The former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback, selected as the No. 20 pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, is set to compete for the starting position in the 2025 season.

“I’m excited to get back into [the AFC North] and I just think it’s a great opportunity to go compete,” said Pickett during his introductory news conference on Thursday. The Browns traded a 2025 fifth-round pick along with another quarterback to secure Pickett, who becomes the only healthy quarterback on their roster.

As the offseason progresses, the Browns have yet to sign any free agent quarterbacks, a situation that became critical as many top talents have already been secured by other teams. The organization is scheduled to meet with Russell Wilson, formerly of the Seattle Seahawks, later this week. Pickett expressed that he is open to Wilson joining the team despite having replaced him in Pittsburgh.

At 26, Pickett boasts a 15-10 record as a starter after two seasons with the Steelers and a backup role with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he made one start last season. Despite a recent torn Achilles tendon that will keep him sidelined for a considerable part of the coming season, he views himself as a starter. “I do view myself as a starter,” Pickett said.

Following the conclusion of his exit meetings with the Eagles, Pickett anticipated a trade, though he was surprised it would be to Cleveland. The Browns hold the second overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, which could be used to add another quarterback. However, Pickett remains unfazed, emphasizing the necessity of an opportunity regardless of competition.

“All you want is an opportunity. It doesn’t matter who else is in the room. All you can ask for is an opportunity, then you’ve got to go handle the rest,” he added.