The Steelers wasted no time making roster changes following Super Bowl LVIII, releasing three players on Monday, including former No. 2 overall pick of the 2017 NFL Draft, quarterback Mitchell Trubisky.
In two seasons with the Steelers, Trubisky went 2-5 as a starter, throwing eight touchdowns to 10 interceptions.
The former North Carolina Tar Heel infamously was selected eight picks ahead of three-time Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes.
While Mahomes seeks a fourth Lombardi Trophy next season, Trubisky will try to land on his fourth NFL team.
After four seasons with the Bears (2017-20), Trubisky spent the 2021 season as Josh Allen’s backup in Buffalo.
Trubisky showed promise in his second season as he led the Bears to a 12-4 record. He also led the Bears to the playoffs in 2020, but Chicago lost in the wild-card round both times.
The Steelers’ decision to part ways with Trubisky isn’t all that surprising considering head coach Mike Tomlin didn’t mention him when discussing the team’s plans at quarterback next season. Mason Rudolph and Kenny Pickett could get a crack at the starting job, as could a quarterback available via free agency or trade, including Russell Wilson or Justin Fields.
As for Trubisky, if he has an NFL future, it would likely be as an offensive guru’s pet project. 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan took in Sam Darnold this season to serve as Brock Purdy’s backup, and Trubisky might be able to find a similar role elsewhere.
If nothing else, Pittsburgh’s decision to cut bait so soon after the season allows Trubisky to audition for the UFL. The spring football league’s inaugural season kicks off on March 30.