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Rock Hill Today
By the People, for the People
Panthers Add Former First-Round QB Pickett as Backup
Pickett joins Carolina to back up starting QB Bryce Young on one-year deal.
Published on Mar. 9, 2026
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The Carolina Panthers have signed former first-round draft pick Kenny Pickett to a one-year contract, adding him to their quarterback depth chart as a backup to starter Bryce Young.
Why it matters
The Panthers are looking to solidify their quarterback position behind Young, their young franchise signal-caller. Pickett, a 2022 first-round pick, provides experienced depth and competition at the position.
The details
Pickett, 24, was the 20th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. He started 10 games as a rookie, throwing for 2,404 yards, 7 touchdowns and 9 interceptions. The Panthers are hoping a change of scenery and a chance to learn behind Young will help Pickett develop into a reliable backup option.
- The deal was agreed to on March 9, 2026.
The players
Kenny Pickett
A 24-year-old quarterback who was a first-round draft pick of the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2022.
Bryce Young
The Carolina Panthers' starting quarterback, a young franchise signal-caller.
Carolina Panthers
An NFL team based in Rock Hill, South Carolina that plays in the NFC South division.
What’s next
Pickett will compete with the Panthers' other backup quarterbacks for the primary reserve role behind Young during the team's offseason program and training camp.
The takeaway
The Panthers are continuing to build depth at quarterback, adding a former first-round pick in Pickett to provide experienced backup support for their young starter Bryce Young.
