Post-Watson Era: Predicting Kenny Pickett’s Next Team and Fantasy Football Impact

Post-Watson Era: Predicting Kenny Pickett’s Next Team and Fantasy Football Impact

The 2025 NFL season is already delivering its fair share of surprises, and one of the most talked-about storylines revolves around Kenny Pickett. Once seen as a potential franchise quarterback, Pickett finds himself in a precarious position with the Cleveland Browns, leading many to wonder where he might land next and what his future holds for fantasy football enthusiasts.

Pickett’s Tumultuous Journey to Cleveland

After a Super Bowl-winning stint as a backup with the Philadelphia Eagles, Kenny Pickett was traded to the Cleveland Browns. The Browns, reeling from Deshaun Watson’s season-ending Achilles injury, were looking to revamp their quarterback room. They brought in a crowded field of contenders, including veteran Joe Flacco and rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders.

Initially, Pickett was expected to compete for the starting role. However, things haven’t gone according to plan. According to Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, Pickett’s early struggles in training camp, coupled with a hamstring injury, have negatively impacted his outlook. The emergence of rookies Gabriel and Sanders has further complicated matters, potentially pushing Pickett down the depth chart.

Trade Winds Blowing?

The possibility of Pickett being traded has become a hot topic. Breer suggested that a trade could be possible depending on Pickett’s preseason performance and whether a team experiences a significant change in their quarterback situation. Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay even predicted that Pickett might request a trade, given his initial expectations of competing for a starting role.

Several teams could be potential landing spots for Pickett. Kay identified the Los Angeles Rams and the Indianapolis Colts as possible suitors. Both teams have quarterbacks with injury concerns – Matthew Stafford and Anthony Richardson, respectively – potentially creating an opportunity for Pickett to compete for a starting job.

Potential Suitors: A Closer Look

  • Los Angeles Rams: With Matthew Stafford’s age and injury history, the Rams might seek a younger, developmental option. Pickett could provide a capable backup and potential future starter.
  • Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Richardson’s promising career has been hampered by injuries. Pickett could offer a reliable backup with starting experience, providing insurance for the Colts.
  • New Orleans Saints: With Derek Carr not playing up to expectations, the Saints might want to bring in competition.

Fantasy Football Fallout

Pickett’s uncertain future has significant implications for fantasy football. After a promising start to his career with the Steelers, his fantasy value has plummeted.

Currently, FantasyPros has Pickett’s 2025 projections listed as follows:

  • Passing Yards: 494.2
  • Passing Touchdowns: 2.3
  • Interceptions: 2
  • Rushing Yards: 24.8
  • Rushing Touchdowns: 0.3

These projections reflect his diminished role and the uncertainty surrounding his next destination.

Scenarios and Fantasy Impact

  • Starting Role: If Pickett lands with a team where he has a clear path to starting, his fantasy value would increase significantly. He could be a viable QB2 in deeper leagues or a streaming option in favorable matchups.
  • Backup Role: If Pickett remains a backup, his fantasy value would be minimal. He would only be relevant in deep dynasty leagues or as a handcuff for his team’s starter.
  • Trade to a Team with an Aging/Injury Prone Starter: This is the most interesting scenario. If Pickett is traded to a team like the Rams, his value would be tied to Stafford’s health. He would be a high-upside stash in deeper leagues.

The Steelers’ Quarterback Conundrum

Interestingly, the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pickett’s former team, are also facing a quarterback transition. Veteran Aaron Rodgers signed a one-year deal with the Steelers, but at 41 years old, his long-term future is uncertain. Mason Rudolph has shown promise in training camp, and Skylar Thompson has performed well in the preseason. The Steelers are also evaluating rookie Will Howard, though his progress has been hampered by injury.

The Steelers’ situation highlights the constant quarterback carousel in the NFL. With Rodgers potentially retiring after the season, the Steelers might be in the market for a young quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft. Potential candidates include LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier, South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers, Texas’ Arch Manning, and Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza.

The Browns’ Perspective

The Browns’ decision to bring in so many quarterbacks reflects their desperation to find a reliable starter in Watson’s absence. Joe Flacco, who led the Browns to the playoffs in 2024, provides a veteran presence. Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders represent the future, with the Browns hoping one of them can develop into a franchise quarterback.

For the Browns, trading Pickett would be a way to recoup some value and open up a roster spot. However, they need to ensure they have adequate depth behind Flacco, especially given the inexperience of Gabriel and Sanders.

Conclusion

Kenny Pickett’s future remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: he needs a change of scenery to revitalize his career. Whether he lands with the Rams, Colts, or another team, his next destination will significantly impact his fantasy football value. As the 2025 season unfolds, keep a close eye on Pickett’s situation, as he could emerge as a valuable asset for both his new team and fantasy managers willing to take a chance.