Antonio Brown Takes Aim at Kenny Pickett as Steelers Confirm Russell Wilson as QB1: “Major Upgrades”

Antonio Brown never shies away from stirring the pot, and his latest social media jabs have reignited the heated debate around the Pittsburgh Steelers‘ quarterback situation. With the franchise rolling the dice on Russell Wilson after trading away Kenny Pickett, Brown’s explosive commentary has added fuel to the fire as fans grapple with the comments from the star.

As Wilson looks to recapture his elite form in the black and gold, the former Steelers wide receiver’s scathing remarks toward Pickett provide a glimpse into the intrigue swirling around Pittsburgh’s QB shuffle.

AB’s Explosive takes on Kenny Pickett!

Antonio Brown wasted no time weighing in after the Steelers signed Russell Wilson, tweeting on March 17th, “Steelers QB room with major upgrades for next season @kennypickett10 #CTESPN.” The former Steelers receiver has been unabashed in his criticism of his former team since getting traded.

Back on March 4th, as rumors swirled of Pittsburgh’s interest in Wilson, Brown tweeted: “#CTESPNReport When the Steelers don’t get Wilson, Fields, Cousins or Mayfield and we have to watch Kenny Pickett again @CtespnN”. The context was that at the start of the offseason, the Steelers had given no indication they were looking to upgrade from Pickett as the starter. Head coach Mike Tomlin even said Pickett would get the QB1 job back despite struggles his first two seasons.

But once the Broncos released Wilson after benching him midseason, it didn’t take long for Pittsburgh to organize a meeting with the former Super Bowl winner. That prompted Brown to share a photoshopped image mocking Pickett’s hand size, adding “Kenny Pickett gotta be worried” about losing his job.

As polarizing as ever, Brown is tapping into the underlying skepticism of a fanbase that has endured years of disappointing quarterback play since Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement. His willingness to fan the flames reflects the anxiety of a franchise unaccustomed to instability under center. With Pickett now an Eagles member and Justin Fields signing by the Steelers, the onus fully shifts to Wilson.

Pickett Out, Wilson in as Steelers’ New QB1

In the aftermath of Russell Wilson’s arrival, the Pittsburgh Steelers made the surprising decision to move on from Kenny Pickett. The deal marked an abrupt end to Pickett’s tenure in Pittsburgh after just two underwhelming seasons since being drafted 20th overall in 2022.

For Pickett, it’s a chance at a fresh start. The University of Pittsburgh product never seemed to find his footing, struggling with turnovers and failing to uplift a stagnant Steelers offense. The change of scenery could help unlock Pickett’s potential that made him a first-round pick. As for the Steelers, Wilson’s arrival signals a bold new direction as they aggressively pivot to try and recapture their status as contenders.

Read More: Justin Fields Pens Heartfelt Message for Chicago as Steelers Secure Russell Wilson’s Backup

After Wilson’s own struggles in Denver, Pittsburgh provides the 9-time Pro Bowler a chance to author a career renaissance with Fields as his backup. The Steelers are banking on Wilson rediscovering his Super Bowl-winning form that made him a franchise cornerstone in Seattle.

Wilson’s elite talent, unrelenting competitiveness, and offensive prowess remain tantalizing assets if he can stay healthy. With Pickett moving on, all eyes will be on Wilson to prove the lofty investment was worthwhile to steer Mike Tomlin’s team back to playoff contention.

Read More: Eagles News: Kenny Pickett Dubbed ‘A Better Move’ Than Justin Fields, Whose Future With Bears Hangs in the Balance