Kenny Pickett: Everything you need to know

Pickett is slated to sign a one-year contract with the Panthers, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports. Journeyman QB Andy Dalton remains under contract with the Panthers, but considering his guaranteed money ($2 million) is half that of Pickett's, the latter seems poised to be Bryce Young's backup in 2026 while Dalton could see himself cut for minimal cap savings. Since moving on from Pittsburgh after the 2023 season, Pickett has made 11 appearances (three starts) the last two campaigns between the Eagles and Raiders, completing 53 of 87 passes (60.9 percent) for 479 yards, three touchdowns and three interceptions, rushing 14 times for 37 yards and one more score and fumbling twice (one lost).

Pickett completed one of four passes for three yards, no touchdowns and an interception in Sunday's 14-12 win over the Chiefs. He added one rush for nine yards. The Raiders planned to rotate Pickett and Aidan O'Connell at quarterback in the season finale. While Pickett drew the start, he played only the first quarter after being picked off and otherwise struggling to move the offense. After having the fifth-year option on his rookie contract declined, Pickett will be a free agent this offseason and will likely be set to compete for a backup role.

Pickett and Aidan O'Connell will be the Raiders' available quarterbacks Sunday against the Chiefs with Geno Smith (ankle) ruled out for the contest, Levi Edwards of the Raiders' official site reports. Coach Pete Carroll told Edwards on Wednesday that Pickett likely would start Week 18 while working in a rotation with O'Connell, but Carroll wouldn't commit to a starter as of Friday, instead saying the duo will work in a rotation. Pickett has received run in five games (one start) this season, completing 27 of 41 passes for 185 yards, one touchdown and one interception, turning four carries into 13 yards and losing his only fumble. Meanwhile, O'Connell last played Week 18 of the 2024 campaign.