Kenny Pickett, the rookie quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the recipient of the 2022 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award, recently underwent surgery on his right ankle on December 4, 2023. This followed a season-ending injury in Week 13.

The surgical procedure was successful, and Pickett is anticipated to fully recover and return to the field for the upcoming season. This blog post delves into the details of Pickett’s ankle injury, the surgery, and the implications for both him and the Steelers.

The Injury

Pickett sustained the ankle injury during the fourth quarter of the Steelers’ game against the Arizona Cardinals on December 3, 2023. While scrambling for a first down, he was tackled by Cardinals linebacker Isaiah Simmons, resulting in Simmons landing on Pickett’s right leg.

The immediate consequence was evident pain, leading to Pickett being carted off the field. A subsequent diagnosis revealed a high ankle sprain, involving a tear in the ligament connecting the tibia and fibula.

The Surgery

On December 4, 2023, Pickett underwent surgery at the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic in Los Angeles. Renowned specialist Dr. Steven Shin, known for his work with NFL players like Drew Brees and J.J. Watt, performed the surgery.

The procedure entailed reattaching the torn ligament to the bone using anchors and sutures. Fortunately, the surgery went smoothly without complications or infections. Pickett is expected to make a complete recovery, regaining full function and strength in his ankle.