The Pittsburgh Steelers got their 2025 official schedule, and there are storylines everywhere. Of course, many of those storylines could be even bigger if Aaron Rodgers decides to come play for the Steelers in 2025, as many expect. His arrival would add a whole new dimension to the season, raising the stakes for every game and creating excitement across the fan base.
One of the most obvious revenge game possibilities centers around Kenny Pickett and his new team, the Cleveland Browns. Pickett was drafted by the Steelers in the 2022 NFL Draft and was expected to become the face of the franchise. After two seasons, however, he forced his way out via trade, first moving to the Philadelphia Eagles, and now, a year later, he finds himself with the Browns.
Pickett isn’t guaranteed to start in Cleveland, as the Browns have a crowded quarterback room, but if he does take the field against Pittsburgh, it would create an intense storyline for an already heated divisional rivalry. Steelers legend Ben Roethlisberger even posed an interesting question on his Footbahlin podcast about how fans would react if Pickett leads the Browns against the Steelers in 2025, highlighting the drama that could unfold.
"Is that going to be a Kenny Pickett revenge game or Shedeur Sanders, Joe Flacco?" Roethlisberger asked. "I think that is a win both directions. If Kenny comes in, does he get booed or cheered? I think cheered."
The Browns have a very intriguing and crowded quarterback room, featuring Pickett, Joe Flacco, Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel, and Deshaun Watson. Of course, Watson is currently recovering from a serious injury and is unlikely to be part of the Browns’ plans in 2025. The Browns invested in youth by drafting both Sanders and Gabriel in the 2025 NFL Draft, taking Gabriel first. Despite the draft order, many analysts believe Sanders might have a better chance to earn the starting role based on his skill set and potential.
Flacco remains the seasoned veteran in the group, and his experience proved valuable in 2023 when he helped lead the Browns to a playoff appearance. Looking ahead to 2025, it appears that both Flacco and Pickett will have legitimate opportunities to compete for the starting quarterback job. The competition is expected to be fierce, given the talent and experience in the room.
The Week 6 matchup in Pittsburgh means Pickett would be returning to the Steel City as an opponent, creating a compelling narrative for Steelers fans. Whether the crowd’s reaction will be supportive, indifferent, or hostile, it will undoubtedly be a memorable moment that adds to the storylines surrounding both teams. Pickett’s time at Pitt made him a fan favorite among many football supporters who cheered for both his college team and the Steelers. His impressive performances at the collegiate level earned him respect and admiration, not just locally, but across the football community.
Some Steelers Fans Are Still Big Supporters Of Kenny Pickett
Even now, many within Steeler Nation still root for Pickett, despite him being a Brown. His journey from a promising draft pick to a player seeking his place in the NFL has created a complex, but compelling relationship with the fan base. Roethlisberger believes that when Pickett returns to Pittsburgh in 2025, the fan base might actually cheer for him or, at the very least, show a more neutral reaction.
This possible warm reception speaks to the respect Pickett earned during his time with the Steelers and in college, where many fans followed his development closely. It’s a testament to the impact a player can have beyond team allegiance, connecting with fans on a personal level through his talent, work ethic, and story.
Regardless of which jersey he wears, Pickett’s return to Pittsburgh will undoubtedly be a significant moment, loaded with emotion and nostalgia for many in Steeler Nation. However, it doesn't seem to be likely Steelers fans would cheer for a rival player in Pittsburgh.
