‘All signs point’ to Steelers making the right call at quarterback

The Pittsburgh Steelers brought in Mitch Trubisky to start for them. Despite a push from Kenny Pickett, that appears to be his trajectory.

Pickett was the Steelers first-round selection out of the University of Pittsburgh in this April’s NFL Draft. Eventually, he will have a firm grasp on the starting quarterback position for the professional team in the Steel City, as well.

But doing so from the outset will not be as simple. The Steelers signed Trubisky to a two-year contract, ideally to play as a bridge quarterback for their signal-caller of the future. Pittsburgh now has both of those features in place.

As a pro-ready QB, Pickett could theoretically be an upgrade from Week 1-on. But doing so would put him at risk of failure, something the Steelers would rather avoid. Letting him watch, at least for a few weeks while the more seasoned Trubisky leads the charge, makes more long-term sense.

Steelers: Mitchell Trubisky established as starter for now

While the Steelers coaches insisted fans and media shouldn’t read too much into team OTAs, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter Gerry Dulac claims Trubisky is the starter for now:

"“But after two weeks of organized team activities (OTAs) and three days of a mandatory minicamp that ends Thursday, all signs appear to point to Trubisky being the starter when the Steelers open their season Sept. 11 in Cincinnati.”"

Trubisky is preparing as though he’s the starter, as well. It’s all subject to change, given we aren’t even in training camp yet. But Pittsburgh didn’t spend decent money on a player like Trubisky with the intent of benching him Week 1.

“I’m preparing to be a starter,” Trubisky said. “I feel like, no matter what position you’re in, that’s the way you should prepare. I wouldn’t read too much into it, but I’m getting a lot of good reps. I feel really comfortable in the offense. I feel very confident.”

For now, Pickett should get used to holding the clipboard.