The New York Jets welcomed Kenny Pickett to the NFL in hard-hitting fashion
Every player in the NFL has their “Welcome to the NFL” moment. Whether it’s the change in speed of a game, a defensive back getting torched by a wide receiver, or a big hit, everyone has that moment when they realize the NFL is a different animal than college football.
For Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett, that moment came against the New York Jets.
Speaking on the Pivot Podcast, Pickett was asked about the moment that made him realize the NFL was different than college football. Pickett’s response?
Quinnen Williams.
Kenny Pickett’s first appearance as an NFL quarterback came against the Jets in Week 4 of the 2022 season. Pickett replaced starter Mitchell Trubisky and gave the Steelers a spark before the Jets rallied in the fourth quarter and won 24-20.
The Jets’ defense had a field day with the then-rookie quarterback, recording three interceptions and forcing a fumble.
But for Pickett, his “Welcome to the NFL” moment came on a third-and-8 play that forced the rookie QB to stand in the pocket in the face of pressure. That pressure came from Quinnen Williams, who made sure Pickett felt his presence.
Great throw down the middle by Kenny Pickett with Quinnen Williams getting immediate pressure. pic.twitter.com/w0qXIcQNhT
— Mario (@realmarioflores) October 7, 2022
This game was just the beginning of Williams’ dominant 2022 season, which saw him finish with a career-high 12 sacks and a first-team All-Pro nod.
This season, Williams will be playing in the last year of his rookie contract. Despite posting a cryptic tweet in response to Joe Douglas’ optimistic comments surrounding a possible extension, the two sides will continue to work on putting together what will be a market-clearing deal for the elite defensive tackle.
We’re likely to see Williams dish out more “Welcome to the NFL” moments this season.
