Mitch Trubisky To Start At Quarterback, Says Steelers Head Coach

The Pittsburgh Steelers were unsure who their starting quarterback will be after Ben Roethlisberger announced his retirement, but there now seems to be clarity in the situation.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin spoke with his former cornerback Bryant McFadden on CBS Sports HQ and was asked whether Mitch Trubisky would get the nod for the starting role if they were to play a meaningful game immediately.

"Yeah, because that's the premise in which we started. We're really transparent with the guys and we base it on resume. Mitch [Trubisky] has won in this league, the statistics bear that out and he has more experience than the others. We just thought it's appropriate to start there," said Tomlin.

Trubisky started his career with the Chicago Bears in 2017, and there was a ton of pressure placed onto his shoulders after being drafted second overall ahead of now-household names like Patrick Mahomes and Deshaun Watson.

In four seasons with the Bears, Trubisky was anything but a bust when compared to former quarterbacks as he accumulated 10,609 passing yards, 64 touchdowns, and 37 interceptions while holding the franchise record for career passer rating (87.2) and career completion percentage (64 percent).

When compared to the likes of Mahomes and Watson's achievements. Trubisky pales in comparison and his fifth-year option was declined by the Bears which led to last season's stint with the Buffalo Bills to serve as Josh Allen's backup.

Trubisky was projected to be the Steelers' first-string quarterback among himself, Mason Rudolph and this year's 20th overall pick in Kenny Pickett as early as mid-June after Steelers offensive coordinator Matt Canada's comments.

"I think Coach [Tomlin] has been very clear that Mitch [Trubisky] is No. 1, working with the ones and doing a really good job with that. Mason [Rudolph] is No. 2, and Kenny [Pickett] is No. 3 and we are working that way based on experience, based on resume," Canada said as quoted by The Athletic.

Tomlin noted how difficult it has been for the coaching staff to manage the trio because of how unique their skillsets are.

Trubisky's advantage compared to the other younger quarterbacks was his athleticism which allows him to be fluid and mobile on the field, according to Tomlin.

The quarterback battle is expected to rage throughout the season as Trubisky could be upended by Rudolph or Pickett at some point in the season, with the trio potentially sharing duties.

For now, Trubisky has his name atop the depth chart as the Steelers trudge through training camp.