Making the second start of his NFL career, Pittsburgh Steelers rookie quarterback Kenny Pickett left Sunday’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after taking a hard hit. Mitchell Trubisky, who began the season as Pittsburgh’s starting QB, is now under center.
Steelers QB Kenny Pickett Heads to Locker Room
Pickett is being evaluated for a head injury after his helmet banged off the turf following a big hit. Pittsburgh has since announced that Pickett is out for the rest of today’s game.
The NFL is placing an increased emphasis on potential concussions following the Tua Tagovailoa saga, so both the Steelers and the league will be careful with the first-round rookie’s health.
Pickett had completed 11 of 18 attempts for 67 yards and a touchdown before leaving the game. The Steelers were significant home underdogs heading into Week 6, but Pickett and Pittsburgh were up 13-12 when he exited.
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Trubisky started the Steelers’ four games of the year after signing a two-year contract over the offseason. After getting a win against the Bengals in Week 1, Trubisky took losses in Weeks 2 and 3 before being benched for Pickett in Week 4.
Over his four starts, Trubisky completed 59.5% of his passes for two touchdowns and two interceptions. He also added a score on the ground.
Mason Rudolph is the Steelers’ third-string quarterback. He’s inactive today but would be available as the new No. 2 if Pickett is out for a while.