Kenny Pickett’s Subtle Steelers Dig Ignites Rivalry Fire Ahead of 2025 Browns-Steelers Showdown
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Cleveland Browns quarterback Kenny Pickett has reignited the NFL’s fiercest rivalry by indirectly criticizing his former team, the Pittsburgh Steelers, during a recent interview. While avoiding direct hostility since his 2024 trade, Pickett’s praise of the Philadelphia Eagles’ "top-down organizational culture" subtly contrasted with his turbulent two-year tenure in Pittsburgh.
Pickett’s Trade and Controversy
His exit from the Steelers in 2024 followed clashes with teammates and a standoff over transparency, culminating in a trade request after Russell Wilson’s arrival. Hall of Famer Terry Bradshaw amplified tensions by accusing Pittsburgh of failing to support Pickett’s development, stating, "The Steelers were the failure, not Kenny."
The Turnpike Rivalry’s New Chapter
A Legacy of Intensity
Spanning nearly 80 years, the Browns-Steelers rivalry (the "Turnpike Rivalry") has 147 meetings and remains fueled by geographic and playoff-driven tensions. With Pittsburgh holding a 82-64-1 edge, 2025’s matchups—Week 6 in Pittsburgh and Week 17 in Cleveland—are critical for both teams’ playoff aspirations.
2025 Season Stakes
- Browns: Rebuilding after a 3-14 season, Pickett faces pressure to lead a quarterback competition against veterans like Joe Flacco and rookies.
- Steelers: Rely on Wilson’s veteran leadership and a strong defense, despite scrutiny over his age (36) and contract demands.
Performance and Implications
Pickett’s 2024 performance with the Eagles (291 passing yards, 2 TDs, 86.5 QBR in limited action) hints at untapped potential. His success in Cleveland could validate his talent while challenging Steelers’ front office decisions to trade him for Wilson.
Conclusion: Redemption and Rivalry
The 2025 season promises high stakes for both franchises. Pickett’s personal motivation and Cleveland’s roster upgrades add intrigue to the rivalry’s next chapter. As the Browns aim to end their playoff drought and the Steelers seek Super Bowl relevance, these matchups will test narratives of leadership, strategy, and legacy.
Keywords: Kenny Pickett, Pittsburgh Steelers, Cleveland Browns, NFL rivalries, AFC North
