Could Carolina Panthers HC Matt Rhule bet his job on Kenny Pickett?

Could a previous relationship between Matt Rhule and Kenny Pickett lead the quarterback to the Carolina Panthers during the 2022 NFL Draft?

There is some intense speculation already developing about just what the Carolina Panthers are going to do from No. 6 overall in the 2022 NFL Draft. The need for offensive line help is evident, but the team could also explore the possibility of landing a potential franchise quarterback if the right player becomes one of significant interest.

This draft class doesn’t have someone with the reputation of Trevor Lawrence, who was taken by the Jacksonville Jaguars at No. 1 in 2021. But there are two or three prospects that could end up being successful starters in the right fit and Kenny Pickett is one such name that will come up a bunch during the evaluation process.

Pickett came of age at Pittsburgh last season, completing 67.2 percent of his passes for 4,319 yards, 42 touchdowns, seven interceptions, and a passer efficiency rating of 165.3. He also gained 233 yards and five scores on the ground.

The signal-caller showcased his skills throughout an impressive week at the Senior Bowl. Although there were some questions about his hand size that will obviously come up once again when the NFL Scouting Combine rolls around.

Some reports from scouts in Mobile claimed that Pickett was the most pro-ready quarterback entering the league this year. There is also a previous connection between the prospect and Panthers head coach Matt Rhule, who almost recruited him to Temple before he opted to go elsewhere.

Pickett stated during media availability that he still has a “great relationship” with Rhule, outlining his respect for the under-fire coach despite choosing to go to Pittsburgh and de-committing from his program upon leaving high school.

"“Just because he’s a great person. It comes down to people first in this business. I trust him. Talking to all the players he coached prior to when I was thinking about committing, that’s what they all talked about what a great guy he is and how hard they played for him.”"

The feeling is clearly mutual.

But whether this leads the quarterback to Carolina is another matter.

Carolina Panthers HC Matt Rhule has to get his next QB decision right

One thing is absolutely certain. Rhule cannot make another error at the most important position on the field after Teddy Bridgewater and Sam Darnold failed to deliver the goods.

Another false move could come with some serious repercussions. Rhule has to be absolutely convinced Pickett is the right man to lead the Panthers moving forward and if he’s wrong, then the former Baylor man is unlikely to see out his lucrative contract.

Pickett has a lot of nice traits to call upon. But there are some concerns surrounding arm strength and he might not have the high ceiling of prospects like Malik Willis or Matt Corrall.

This is a franchise-shifting move for Carolina, who showed little to no progress in 2021 after a strong 3-0 start that brought increased expectations. Rhule got a reprieve from team owner David Tepper, but the margin for error is now slim at best.

Of all the quarterbacks entering the league this year, Pickett could be the one that helps Carolina the quickest.

The Panthers do have Darnold under contract with a guaranteed $18.85 million, who could be a bridge until Pickett is ready to assume control under center.

One could argue that Carolina’s offensive line should be the top priority. But this is the time of year where teams get enamored with quarterbacks atop the draft and it wouldn’t be the biggest shock in the world if Rhule went with Pickett when it’s all said and done.

A decision he’ll be betting his job on.