Kenny Pickett is already an All-American, Heisman finalist, Johnny Unitas Golden Arm recipient quarterback as a super-senior at Pitt, and he’s adding another prestigious award to his trophy case.
Pickett was selected as the 2021 Senior CLASS Award winner Wednesday, the award presented to the most outstanding senior FBS student-athlete as chosen by a panel of FBS coaches, national media and fans.
Pickett’s on- and off-the-field impact for Pitt this season embodied what the CLASS (Celebrating Loyalty and Achievement for Staying in School) Award stands for.
Pickett’s record-breaking season of 4,319 passing yards and 47 total touchdowns in leading Pitt to an 11-2 season capped by an ACC championship is well-regarded, but his off-field impact in the local community was just as important.
In making the most of name, image and likeness deals this season, Pickett used his sponsorship opportunities to give back to his offensive line, give back to the local Pittsburgh community and make an impact as great as anyone in college football.
“Kenny Pickett has succeeded in fulfilling the greatest of expectations that a student-athlete can have,” Erik Miner, the Executive Director of the Senior CLASS Award, said in Pitt’s press release. “He has created a standard for others to follow at the University of Pittsburgh and deserves all of the recognition he has received for his terrific season. We are proud to offer our congratulations to Kenny for winning this award.”
With Pickett opting out of the Peach Bowl, his next stops will be the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine next year, before he’s likely a first round draft pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.
