Steelers' Pickett unlikely to play vs. Panthers

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett will be listed as doubtful ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Carolina Panthers, head coach Mike Tomlin told reporters, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Brian Batko.

Tomlin added that Pickett was a "partial participant" in Friday's practice as the rookie passer remains in the league's concussion protocol.

Pickett, who's posted a 4-5 record since earning the team's starting role, suffered his second concussion in eight weeks during last Sunday's loss to the Baltimore Ravens.

The Pitt product has thrown for 1,797 yards, four touchdowns, and eight interceptions with a 65% completion rate. He's also rushed for 225 yards and three scores.

The Steelers are expected to name either Mitch Trubisky or Mason Rudolph the starter this weekend. The veteran signal-callers split first-team snaps during practice this week.

Tomlin declined to name a starter Friday. "There's no need to land the plane until it's required to land the plane," he said.

The Steelers (5-8) sit third in the AFC North.