Class of 2017 QB Kenny Pickett (Ocean Township HS Oakhurst, NJ) 6’3″ 192 lbs made his verbal commitment to The University of Pittsburgh Saturday June 4th on a unofficial visit to Pitt after decommitting from Temple University May 16th. Pickett had been committed to Temple since April 9th. He chose to commit to Pitt over scholarship offers from the likes of Temple, Boston College, Iowa, UConn and numerous other offers. Pitt offered the former Temple commit May 10th, six days later he decided to open his recruitment by decommitting. Pickett becomes the fourth verbal commitment of the 2017 class joining Greater Johnstown Johnstown, PA CB Exree Loe, Steel Valley Homestead, PA S/WR Paris Ford and Finlay, OH S/LB Kyle Nunn.

A consensus three-star prospect by the major recruiting services Kenny was selected to represent the United States versus Canada in the U18 International Bowl February 5th, 2016 in Arlington, TX at AT&T Stadium. Pickett wasn’t only a member of the roster, he excelled in the game completing 24 of 30 passes for 299 yards and 3 TDs. This performance earned him game MVP honors in the 34-3 victory over the Canadian team.
Pickett had a successful junior season for Ocean Township leading the Spartans to a 9-2 record in 2015. Kenny completed 103 passes in 164 attempts for 1,637 yards, 16 TDs with 5 Ints. He also rushed 70 times for 299 yards and 5 TDs. Not only successful on the football field at Ocean Township, but also in the classroom he carries a 93 GPA. I had an opportunity to ask Kenny a few questions after his commitment.
MJ-“What ultimately led to the decision that Pitt was the right fit for you?’
KP-“The direction of the program and the coaching staff played a huge role in choosing Pitt. Also, the academics and it only being five hours from home was another factor.”
MJ-“What were some of the attributes Pitt offers that excites you about being a Panther?”
KP-“Some of the things that Pitt offers that is exciting is playing in a great city with a great fan base. The support I have gotten has been unreal.”
MJ-“What was your U18 International Bowl MVP experience like? 299 yards and 3 TDs is a very impressive performance.”
KP-“The International Bowl was a great experience and something I’ll never forget.”
MJ-“I’ve seen you mention before you’ve played your high school career with a chip on your shoulder. Where does that come from?”
KP-“Playing with a chip on my shoulder just came from growing up playing the game, a lot of people have doubted what I could do on the field so I use that as motivation.”
MJ-“You’re accomplished on the football field as well as the classroom. Do you still plan on being a early enrollee?”
KP-“Yes, I’m definitely trying to enroll early.”
MJ-“What do you plan to major in?”
KP-“I plan on majoring in Business.”
MJ-“You show polished footwork and arm mechanics in your highlights. Where do these fundamentals come from?”
KP-“A lot of credit comes from my Quarterback Coach Chris Malleo, he’s been a huge help in my development and I cant thank him enough for that.”

So what is Pitt getting in the commitment of Kenny Pickett? First thing that’s evident to me is he’s well coached. He shows advanced fundamentals in a clean pocket, smooth footwork while his upper and lower body are synced maximizing velocity on his throws. Kenny keeps his head up and focused downfield using his peripheral vision to avoid the rush when the pocket breaks down. While he’s considered a pro-style QB, he’s athletic enough to have escape ability and impact the running game. Accuracy is his bread and butter, he throws with anticipation and touch on the ball throwing receivers open. Enrolling early and getting a year of winter strength and conditioning combined spring ball before his freshman season will pay dividends down the road for his development. At 6’3″ 192, he would benefit greatly from the Pitt S/C staff. Added mass and physical strength will add velocity to his throws and durability to withstand the punishment a P5 QB takes. Overall, he appears to be someone who projects to add depth and competition to the QB position of the future for the Panthers.

Kenny Pickett’s Junior highlights
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/4675205/highlights/293112412

...