Pickett to skip Peach Bowl, begin preparations for NFL draft

Pittsburgh quarterback Kenny Pickett will skip the Peach Bowl to begin preparing for the 2022 NFL Draft, he announced Thursday.

Pickett, who enjoyed a meteoric rise up draft boards during his senior season, is speculated to be among the first quarterbacks selected in April.

The 23-year-old became a Heisman finalist after throwing for 4,319 yards and 42 touchdowns against seven interceptions. His previous career highs were 3,098 yards and 13 scores.

Pickett will likely benefit from a quarterback class widely criticized for lacking top-tier prospects. Critics also expect Matt Corral, Desmond Ridder, and Malik Willis to garner first-round consideration.

Nick Patti will likely get the start against Michigan State on Dec. 30.

The Spartans also won't have their top offensive player after running back Kenneth Walker declared for the draft.