Latest news with #Pickett
Hindustan Times
a day ago
- Sport
- Hindustan Times
Browns QB Kenny Pickett dealing with hamstring issue
Kenny Pickett, one of four players in Cleveland's quarterback competition, will miss time with a hamstring injury, leaving Joe Flacco as the primary QB1 this week. HT Image Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski has been rotating Pickett and Flacco, an 18-year veteran, with the first-team offense early in training camp. Stefanski said he knew Pickett was hurt Saturday. The team sent him for an MRI exam and confirmed the injury, which will be reevaluated later in the week. "With something like this, we'll see how it goes. But his mindset, my mindset, we'll just go day-to-day," Stefanski said Monday. Rookie third-round pick Dillon Gabriel is also in the picture and has been taking the majority of the second-team reps ahead of fifth-rounder Shedeur Sanders. Incumbent starter Deshaun Watson is idle while recovering from a series of Achilles surgeries over the past nine months. Pickett, 27, was acquired from the Philadelphia Eagles in a trade during the offseason and Flacco, 40, who signed as a free agent and led the Browns to the playoffs in 2023, is back in Cleveland after playing for the Indianapolis Colts last season. Pickett lost his starting job with the Pittsburgh Steelers late in the 2023 season. The team moved on from Pickett before the 2024 campaign, trading him to the Eagles to be a backup to Jalen Hurts. Pickett is 15-10 as a starter and has completed 62.4 percent of his passes for 4,765 yards with 15 touchdowns and 14 interceptions in 30 games. --Field Level Media
USA Today
a day ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Former Eagles QB's unfortunate injury opens the door for Shedeur Sanders
One of the more talked-about NFL rookies could get his shot, potentially, as a former Eagles QB suffers an unfortunate injury. Wally Pipp never played a down for the Philadelphia Eagles, but we are all familiar with his story. Sometimes, he is inaccurately described as a man who lost his job due to an injury. The truth is that it only tells half of the story. Pipp asked for a day off because of a headache on June 2, 1925. Lou Gehrig stepped in, and there isn't a die-hard sports fan, New York Yankees or otherwise, who doesn't know what transpired once he did. Some of you may be old enough to recall an old football saying. 'Guys can't lose their jobs because of injury'. Raise those hands if you believe that. Yep! That's what we thought. History has taught us that men have lost their jobs due to injuries all the time. Injuries are a part of the game that we all hate talking about, yet we know that, in collision sports, they will occur. Sadly, there's one worth mentioning as it involves a former Eagle, but in an unsurprising twist, it opens the door for an exciting NFL rookie. Kenny Pickett unintentionally opens the door for Shedeur Sanders Kenny Pickett's story isn't like Wally Pipp's in that he asked for a day off or could have gutted something out, maybe. Pickett's career has come with its share of criticism, but we know he's tough. He is from Ocean Township, New Jersey, and was raised as an Eagles fan, but he'll have to sit after a recent diagnosis. He suffered a hamstring injury at the Cleveland Browns' training camp, per ESPN's Adam Schefter. That appears to have opened the door for rookie draftee Shedeur Sanders. Pickett will be re-evaluated later in the week, but expect the son of a Pro Football Hall of Famer, Deion Sanders, to make the most of his opportunity. The Browns have 30 or so quarterbacks on the roster. Just teasing. Things aren't that chaotic, but there are a lot of guys to discuss in terms of their competition. Deshaun Watson is injured and is expected to miss the season. After trading with the Eagles for Pickett, they signed Joe Flacco. They drafted Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders this past April. Don't expect Philadelphia's fans to spend a lot of time following the Browns' journey.
USA Today
2 days ago
- Sport
- USA Today
The Browns are making an obvious Joe Flacco error in training camp
Day 3 moments from #Browns QB Joe Flacco:Flacco got first 11-on-11 reps today The Cleveland Browns have maybe the most interesting quarterback battle we've ever seen taking place at training camp this summer; a four-way competition between Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. But if the Browns are being real with themselves, this battle isn't nearly as interesting as they're making it seem. Let's be honest here. The Browns won't win many games in 2025 -- and that's a generous way of saying they're going to stink. They're projected to finish last in the AFC North at BetMGM and have -1100 odds to miss the playoffs. Looking at the QB battle through that lens crystallizes what Cleveland should be trying to do: finding out who can stick beyond 2025. Which brings us to Flacco. Why is he out there taking reps from players who need them a lot more? That question is mostly rhetorical. After trading for Pickett in March, the Browns signed Flacco in early April before knowing the opportunity to draft both Gabriel and Sanders would present itself. They were never going to cut him on account of two rookies who remain question marks. Besides, even the Browns have to give the impression of hope going into a new season, and Flacco provides the most as a chiseled vet and former Super Bowl champion. But the reality is he's not good enough to elevate this team, which means he's only in the way. Even as the best QB on the roster, which isn't a high bar to clear. Pickett still has potential upside as a 27-year-old former first-round pick who the Browns gave up a fifth-rounder to acquire from the Eagles. The other two also have untapped potential. Especially Sanders, who was a projected first-round pick before sliding to the fifth and becoming un-passable for a team as QB-desperate as the Browns. The Athletic's Zac Johnson wrote this morning that Flacco "has been up and down and has rarely strung completions together," which doesn't exactly sound like somebody head and shoulders above the competition. If anything, Flacco is just a good vet for the Browns to have during the preseason. Especially with Pickett now nursing a hamstring injury, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. NFL HELMET RANKINGS: See where the Browns' new alternate look ranks in 2025 Browns QB Kenny Pickett injured his hamstring near the end of Saturday's practice and is expected to re-evaluate the injury later this week, per sources. Pickett was coming off a strong couple of practices, per sources, and at least for the short term, there now will be more reps… In a QB battle full of uncertainty, Flacco is the one known quantity. And what we know about him is enough to say he's not worth blocking opportunities for the others to play, show what they can do and grow. So, unless the Browns plan to trade Gabriel or Sanders, it wouldn't make much sense for them to keep Flacco into the regular season. In 2025, he doesn't need to be anything more than an insurance backup for a team actually playing for something. Ichiro got jokes The National Baseball Hall of Fame enshrined five new members Sunday, with Ichiro Suzuki, CC Sabathia, Billy Wagner, Dave Parker and Dick Allen all part of the 2025 class inducted into Cooperstown. Ichiro used his speech to crack a few jokes, including one aimed at the lone voter who left Ichiro off his ballot. "3000 hits or 262 hits in one season are achievements recognized by the writers, well, all but one of you"Ichiro Suzuki I'm glad he made it a point to highlight the ridiculousness of one person (out of 394!) leaving him off the ballot, though I really wish Ichiro could've put a name on that zinger. Unfortunately, he couldn't because baseball writers don't have to make their ballots public, which is a shame. It's the exact reason Ichiro wasn't the first snub as a unanimous selection and he won't be the last. Quick Hits: Terry McLaurin update ... Commander in Cheat ... and more Thanks for tapping in with us. We'll be back with more tomorrow. This was For The Win's daily newsletter, The Morning Win. Did a friend recommend or forward this to you? If so, subscribe here.
USA Today
2 days ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Ex-Steelers QB Kenny Pickett injured at Browns training camp
Browns QB Kenny Pickett injured his hamstring near the end of Saturday's practice and is expected to re-evaluate the injury later this week, per sources. Pickett was coming off a strong couple of practices, per sources, and at least for the short term, there now will be more reps… Former Steelers QB Kenny Pickett has suffered an unfortunate hamstring injury at Browns training camp — opening the door for the starting competition to get additional reps. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Pickett suffered his hamstring injury at the end of Saturday's practice — and is set to be re-evaluated later this week. The Steelers traded Pickett to the Eagles last offseason — who then sent him to the Browns, where he's involved in a four-way competition for the starting QB position in Cleveland. Pickett was splitting reps with QBs Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders for the Browns' starting spot — and despite a strong early showing at camp, the ex-Steeler will likely fight an uphill battle for the job while nursing his hamstring. Here's to hoping the former first-rounder can return quickly and earn the role for Cleveland — as the Week 6 revenge game, when the Browns visit Pittsburgh, hinges on Pickett under center. For up-to-date Steelers coverage, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.
USA Today
2 days ago
- Sport
- USA Today
8 SEC football freshmen defenders who can make an instant impact
The SEC recruits better than any other conference in college football. With this much high-level talent, it's hard to keep some recruits off the field. A handful of true freshmen make immediate impacts every fall. Some players force their way on the field. Others have to play out of necessity. Either way, any team looking to contend needs a few first-year players to make an impact. Today, we'll look at eight true freshman defenders across the SEC that have a chance to be difference makers in 2025. This list ranges from five-stars who could play anywhere to four-star players making strong first impressions. It's hard to predict which true freshman will see playing time, which is typically volatile for true freshmen. It's not rare to see a guy play 35 snaps one week, only to ride the bench the next. But these are the guys likely to get an opportunity in 2025. Let's jump right in, starting with LSU's five-star cornerback. LSU CB DJ Pickett Pickett signed with LSU as the No. 2-ranked cornerback in the class, per the Rivals' Industry Rankings. He enrolled last December and began practicing with LSU ahead of the Tigers' bowl game. Pickett is uber talented and joins an LSU secondary looking to take a big step. Brian Kelly and defensive coordinator Blake Baker had to rebuild the unit after a rough 2023. Progress was shown last year, but an influx of talent has led to higher expectations in 2025. There's playing time to be won and Pickett is good enough to demand it. The five-star may not start right away, but Pickett will be in LSU's rotation in Week 1. Tennessee DT Isaiah Campbell Tennessee has recruited at a high level in recent years under head coach Josh Heupel. Defensive tackle Isaiah Campbell is one of the highest-ranked signees in Huepel's tenure. According to the Rivals' Industry Rankings, Campbell was a five-star and the No. 4-ranked defensive tackle in the class. The buzz on Rocky Top suggests Campbell is ready to make an immediate impact. Tennessee lost a couple of contributing defensive tackles from the 2024 squad. Campbell is one of the most talented players on the roster. Look for Campbell to work into the rotation as Tennessee looks to continue its high level of play on the defensive side of the ball. Texas S Jonah Williams Williams, a five-star, was one of the best safeties in the class. He's a dual-sport star who played with Texas Baseball in the spring. That gave Williams a late start prepping for football season, but he's talented enough to overcome that. Texas' secondary has been one of the best in the country in recent years, but the Longhorns lost star safety Andrew Mukuba. The Longhorns have no shortage of blue-chip options at the position, so playing time won't come easily for Williams, but he's too much of a playmaker not to factor in at all. Look for Williams to be in the rotation by late October. Georgia DL Elijah Griffin Georgia recruited and developed some good defensive tackles in recent years. Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis were both All-Americans at UGA before going on to be first-round picks. Now, five-star Elijah Griffin looks to be keeping that tradition going. Per 247Sports, Griffin was the No. 3 overall player and No. 1 defensive tackle in the class. It's hard to find the field as a freshman at Georgia, but Griffin has the tools. Here's what 247Sports Director of Scouting Andrew Irvins had to say about Griffin: "Disruptive interior force that fuses together exceptional physical traits with an advanced feel for the game. Has proven to be no match for the competition that he has faced and followed up an uber-productive prep career with a dominant showing during practices for the Under Armour All-America Game." Texas A&M DL DJ Sanders We'll stick with the theme of defensive tackles and highlight Texas A&M's DJ Sanders. Sanders wasn't a five-star like the first few guys on this list. Per the Rivals' Industry Rankings, Sanders was the No. 98 overall recruit and No. 11-ranked defensive tackle. But Texas A&M has a lot to replace on the defensive line and there's room for a true freshman to make an impact. "One of the stronger defensive linemen at the point of attack in the 2025 recruiting cycle, routinely stacks and sheds opposing offensive linemen with ease," wrote 247Sports analyst Hudson Standish. Georgia LB Zayden Walker Again, it's not easy to find playing time as a true freshman at Georgia, especially as a linebacker. Kirby Smart needs his linebackers to be operating at a high level mentally and not every freshman is up to the task. However, Walker has the athletic tools to mitigate the mental learning curve. Per 247Sports, Walker was the No. 1-ranked linebacker in the class. At 6-foot-1, 212 pounds, he's physically ready for SEC football. With CJ Allen and Raylen Wilson, Georgia likes its starting linebackers but it wouldn't be a surprise to see Walker get run as a depth piece or in special packages. Alabama S Ivan Taylor Alabama's secondary is loaded, but there's room for young guys to find the field, especially at safety. Taylor was a top-100 recruit and ranked No. 5 at his position. According to Andrew Bone, Taylor is in the mix to play as a true freshman. "He drew a lot of praise from the upperclassmen during the spring. There's a great chance he'll start on special teams and also make the regular rotation at safety. He'll have some great players ahead of him to learn from this fall." Ole Miss S Cortez Thomas Ole Miss's secondary was one of the SEC's best in 2024 but the group is starting from scratch in 2025 with most of the top contributors gone. That leaves true freshman Cortez Thomas with a chance to make an instant impact. Thomas wasn't a top recruit, ranking No. 322 nationally and No. 30 at his position. He was a blue-chip, but he's not the same caliber of prospect as some others on this list. With playing time wide open and position battles across the board, Thomas can wiggle into the rotation. Texas DE Lance Jackson Jackson won't claim a starting role for Texas with all the talent returning at pass rusher, but EDGE is a position where depth matters. The more competent pass rushers, the better a defensive coordinator can keep the unit fresh. Texas defensive end Colin Simmons is expected to be one of the top defenders in the country. If Jackson is good enough to spell Simmons for 10 snaps a game, Simmons' impact is maximized. Texas isn't shy about playing true freshmen, especially those of Jackson's caliber. The defensive end from Texas ranked as the No. 19 overall recruit and No. 2 at his position. Look to see Jackson on the field early for the Longhorns.
