Panthers Sign Kenny Pickett as Backup QB

Pickett replaces Andy Dalton, who spent 3 seasons as Carolina's QB2

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Carolina Panthers have agreed to a 1-year, $4 million contract with former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett to serve as the backup to starting QB Bryce Young. Pickett, a 2022 first-round draft pick, will replace veteran Andy Dalton, who spent the past 3 seasons as the Panthers' QB2.

Why it matters

The Panthers are looking to solidify their quarterback depth behind young star Bryce Young, and Pickett's addition provides an experienced backup option with starting experience in the NFL. Pickett was previously scouted by the Panthers' former coaching staff, indicating the team sees potential in him.

The details

Pickett, 27, went 14-10 as the Steelers' starting QB over the past 2 seasons before spending the last 2 years as a backup with the Eagles and Raiders. He has a career completion percentage of 62.2% with 16 touchdowns and 16 interceptions. The Panthers are expected to release Andy Dalton, who served as a mentor to Young the past 3 seasons.

  • The Panthers agreed to terms with Pickett on March 9, 2026.

The players

Kenny Pickett

A 27-year-old quarterback who was a 1st-round draft pick of the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2022 and has spent the past 2 seasons as a backup with the Eagles and Raiders.

Bryce Young

The Panthers' starting quarterback, who has been mentored by Andy Dalton the past 3 seasons.

Andy Dalton

The veteran quarterback who has served as the Panthers' backup QB and mentor to Bryce Young for the past 3 seasons.

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What’s next

The Panthers are expected to release Andy Dalton after the signing of Kenny Pickett is finalized.

The takeaway

This move shows the Panthers' commitment to building a strong quarterback room around Bryce Young, their young franchise QB, by bringing in an experienced backup in Pickett who has starting experience in the NFL.