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Kenny Pickett won't play in Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl for Pittsburgh Panthers, will instead prep for NFL draft

Pittsburgh quarterback Kenny Pickett said Thursday he will opt out of the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl and begin preparations for the NFL draft.

In a message posted on social media, Pickett thanked the university, coach Pat Narduzzi and his teammates.

"One of the best moments of my football career was standing on stage with you, the team, and our ACC Championship trophy," he wrote. "I will never forget our victory and everything it took to get us there."

Pickett made the decision to return to Pitt for his senior year to improve his draft stock, but also help his team win a championship.