Kenny Pickett signs one-year deal with Carolina Panthers

Former Steelers and Eagles QB joins his fifth NFL team in five seasons

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Kenny Pickett, the 27-year-old quarterback who was a first-round draft pick of the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2022, has reportedly signed a one-year, $7.5 million contract with the Carolina Panthers. This will be Pickett's fifth NFL team in as many seasons, as he previously played for the Steelers, Eagles, Browns, and Raiders.

Why it matters

Pickett's career trajectory has been marked by frequent team changes, which is unusual for a young quarterback. This move to the Panthers provides him with another opportunity to prove himself as a starting-caliber NFL QB after struggling to find consistent playing time and success with his previous teams.

The details

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Pickett's new contract with the Panthers includes $4 million in guaranteed money. In Carolina, he will join a quarterback room that already includes Bryce Young and Andy Dalton. Pickett was originally drafted 20th overall by the Steelers in 2022 and has an overall NFL record of 16-11 with 16 touchdowns and 16 interceptions over his four seasons in the league.

  • Pickett was drafted by the Steelers in 2022.
  • He played two seasons in Pittsburgh before being traded to the Eagles in 2024.
  • Pickett spent one season in Philadelphia, winning a Super Bowl ring.
  • He was then traded to the Browns and Raiders in 2025 before signing with the Panthers in 2026.

The players

Kenny Pickett

A 27-year-old quarterback who was a first-round draft pick of the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2022 and has since played for the Eagles, Browns, and Raiders.

Bryce Young

The starting quarterback for the Carolina Panthers.

Andy Dalton

A veteran quarterback who is also on the Panthers' roster.

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What’s next

Pickett will compete with Bryce Young and Andy Dalton for the starting quarterback job in Carolina during training camp and the preseason.

The takeaway

Pickett's frequent team changes highlight the challenges young quarterbacks can face in establishing themselves in the NFL. The Panthers are taking a chance on Pickett, hoping he can finally find stability and success as their starting QB.