The Carolina Panthers have agreed to a one-year deal with Kenny Pickett worth up to $7.5 million, including $4 million guaranteed, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
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For Pickett, it is another fresh start.
The 27-year-old spent last season with the Las Vegas Raiders as the backup to Geno Smith. He appeared in six games and made two starts, finishing with 188 passing yards, one touchdown and two interceptions.
It was a small sample size, but it kept Pickett on the radar as teams searched for experienced quarterback depth.
Originally drafted in the first round by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2022, Pickett opened his career in Pittsburgh before being traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024. A year later, the Raiders acquired him from the Cleveland Browns during training camp.
Now Carolina becomes his fifth team in five seasons.
Source: Kenny Pickett has agreed to a one-year deal with the Carolina Panthers worth up to $7.5M that includes $4 million in guarantees.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 9, 2026
The Panthers appear to be bringing him in as insurance behind Bryce Young, who showed flashes last season but has still struggled with consistency.
Pickett has started 27 games in his career and owns a 16-11 record as a starter, throwing for 4,953 yards with 16 touchdowns and 16 interceptions.
For Carolina, it is a low-risk move to add experience in the quarterback room. For Pickett, it might be another opportunity to prove he still belongs.
