Panthers Sign Kenny Pickett for QB Depth

0:00On March 9th, the Carolina Panthers are bolstering their quarterback room by agreeing to terms with former first-round pick, Kenny Pickett. The one-year deal includes $4 million guaranteed and up to $7.5 million total value. Pickett can't sign officially until 4 p.m. on Wednesday when the new league year starts. He'll join starter Bryce Young and backup Andy Dalton, likely competing for that number two spot. Pickett, now 27, spent last season as the Raiders backup after trades from the Eagles who won the Super Bowl and the Browns. This marks his fifth NFL team in five years since Pittsburgh drafted him in 2022. In six games with Vegas, he threw for 188 yards, one touchdown, and two picks. Fans and analysts see this as a smart depth move rather than a splash. Pickett brings solid starter experience with a 16 and 11 record, plus better mobility than Dalton at this stage. His career totals show nearly 5,000 passing yards, 16 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions along with some rushing upside.

1:06The Panthers still need to sort out Dalton, who's owed $2 million this year. They could trade him later, release for savings, or keep him while eyeing the draft. Pickett won't challenge Young's role in his key fourth season, but he's a reliable fill-in with experience across offenses. This shores up competition and insurance heading into training camp, giving the team flexibility as Young aims to build on his progress.