Kenny Pickett, a 26-year-old quarterback, was originally drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers as the 20th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.

Over his first two seasons with the Steelers, Pickett completed 62.6% of his passes for 4,474 yards, throwing 13 touchdowns and 13 interceptions.

After struggling in Pittsburgh, he was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in March 2024, where he served as a backup to Jalen Hurts during the 2024 season.

During his limited playing time with the Eagles, Pickett completed 25 of 42 passes for 291 yards, achieving two touchdowns and one interception.

In March 2025, the Cleveland Browns acquired Pickett from the Eagles, sending a fifth-round pick and quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson in return.

In Cleveland, Pickett joins a revamped quarterback room that includes Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders, all competing for the starting job.

The uncertainty surrounding the Browns' starting quarterback position is heightened by Deshaun Watson's expected absence for a significant portion of the 2025 season due to an Achilles tendon injury.

As of April 28, 2025, the Browns have decided not to exercise Pickett's fifth-year option, which is projected to cost $22.117 million.

Pickett has one year left on his rookie contract, with a fully guaranteed salary of $2.6 million before entering free agency at the end of the 2025 season.

The Browns aim to evaluate Pickett's performance during training camp to determine his future with the team beyond the 2025 season.

The decision not to pick up Pickett's option reflects the team's significant financial considerations as they assess their quarterback situation.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski emphasized that all quarterbacks in the room, including Pickett, will compete for the starting role this offseason.