The best and worst case scenario for all 3 potential Steelers QBs

Steelers QB Mitchell Trubisky

Ceiling: 11-6, Steelers earn Wild Card berth

The veteran QB options that the Steelers had available this offseason were…uninspiring to say the least. Ultimately, they decided that Mitchell Trubisky was their guy, and it makes a lot of sense based on what they want to do offensively.

Head coach Mike Tomlin made several comments about mobility being an important trait for the next Steelers QB this offseason, and Trubisky fits the bill. He has averaged 5.3 yards per rush in his career and tested very well at the NFL combine in 2017.

The biggest knock on Trubisky so far in his career has been his inconsistent decision-making. He has struggled to read defenses and move through his progressions for his entire career. Part of it could be his lack of college experience at North Carolina (just 13 career starts). Having Matt Nagy as his coach may have also stunted his development.

Either way, he fits the mold of what OC Matt Canada is looking for. He will have plenty of simple reads and play-action opportunities that should help him avoid mistakes. If he can keep his turnovers low and let his weapons do the work, this offense could be much better than expected. Combined with a resurgence by the defense, the Steelers could surprise in a major way.

Floor: 7-10, Trubisky implodes

Despite all of the positives of the Trubisky signing, he could easily end up being the same player who was run out of Chicago. The Bears aren’t exactly the best franchise when it comes to evaluating passers, but they were justified in giving up on Trubisky. He barely through the ball past 15 yards by the time his time in Chicago ended, and he clearly needed a change.

The Steelers have to hope that his time with Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills last year rebuilt his confidence. He has the arm talent to be more than just a game manager but isn’t comfortable pushing the ball downfield. With players like Chase Claypool and rookie receivers George Pickens, that has to change.

If the Steelers don’t get an improved version of Trubisky, this offense could look far too much like it has the past two seasons. His mobility alone should help open things up, but it won’t be enough if he can’t make some big plays in the passing game.