Skip to main content

Kenny Pickett Tried Recruiting Connor Heyward to Pitt - Twice

Former Pitt QB Kenny Pickett and tight end Connor Heyward go way back.

PITTSBURGH -- Fun fact - before they were together with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Kenny Pickett tried to recruit Connor Heyward to the Pitt Panthers - twice.

The first time, was during Heyward's high school days while being recruited.

The second, was during his junior season. Heyward decided to briefly enter the transfer portal to explore more options for his college career. The halfback, tight end hybrid already carved out a place for himself at Michigan State, but after becoming more of a backup during his third season, he took some time to explore other options.

During that time, he got a call from his now quarterback. Like any good leader does, Pickett tried to get the Spartan star to come to Pitt and join in their building success.

"I've known Kenny since recruiting day," Heyward said. "He tried to get me to come to Pitt. And then when I entered the portal, I came here and took a visit and we talked before that."

Now, they're teammates with the Steelers and looking to continue building a growing offense. And Heyward already sees Pickett is ready to do so.

"It's really cool to see him end up here, right next door. How is process has been," Heyward said. "Every year he got better. He's a Heisman trophy finalist. He's here to work. He had everybody on the same page and his presence in the huddle is really good."

Make sure you bookmark Inside the Panthersfor the latest news, exclusive interviews, recruiting coverage and so much more!

Pat Narduzzi, Jeff Capel Highest-Paid Pitt Employees of 2021

Pitt Lands WR Walk-On

Former Pitt LB Chase Pine Receives Tryout Invite from Steelers

ACC Commissioner on When Conference Will Remove Divisions

Jordan Addison Sets Official Visit to USC

ACC Commissioner Talks NCAA Future With NIL

Pat Narduzzi Talks Tampering, Scheduling on ACC Network