Mac Jones’ exit from the New England Patriots wasn’t seamless. However, it unfolded more smoothly than Kenny Pickett’s departure from the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Steelers made it public on Saturday that they had traded Pickett to the Philadelphia Eagles, receiving only a few draft picks in return. Soon after, there were whispers about Pickett’s dissatisfaction.
Since being selected as the 20th overall pick in 2022, Pickett had been the main quarterback for Pittsburgh. But, an ankle injury sidelined him this season, giving Mason Rudolph the chance to play. When Rudolph’s performance caught fire, the Steelers chose to keep Pickett benched, even after he recovered.
Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported that Pickett’s behavior became problematic. He allegedly refused to suit up as the emergency third-string quarterback in his last game for the Steelers.
Dulac also mentioned that Pickett’s trade was a result of his attitude and his expressed dissatisfaction after the team signed quarterback Russell Wilson. Following the announcement of Wilson’s signing, Pickett reportedly canceled a training session with Steelers receivers.
When it was time to say goodbye to Pittsburgh, Pickett shared his appreciation for the city where he also attended college. However, he didn’t specifically mention the Steelers or anyone connected to the organization.
Instead, Pickett expressed his excitement about joining the Eagles, the team he supported as a child. “Thank you, Pittsburgh! I arrived in this city 7 years ago, and it forever changed my life. I’m thankful for every amazing person I met and everyone who supported me. I’ve made lifelong friends and relationships I’ll always value. Now, I’m thrilled for the next chapter in my career — playing for the team that ignited my passion for football as a kid. Go Birds!!”
Compared to Pickett’s tumultuous exit, Jones’ departure from New England was relatively calm.
Jones’ final days with the Patriots were not without their share of drama, especially with reports from MassLive’s Mark Daniels that Bill Belichick ceased communication with him and didn’t inform him about his demotion to third string in his last game.
Nevertheless, Jones was suited up for his final game. He also made it a point to thank the Patriots and even mentioned Belichick by name in his farewell message.
After being traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars, Jones openly stated that he and the Patriots mutually agreed that parting ways was the best decision for both parties.