PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Quarterback Mitch Trubisky said it was about the opportunity to start, plus the chance to be a part of a 'great culture' as to why he's a Pittsburgh Steeler. He also said he did homework before he signed.
"I did a bunch of research on (offensive coordinator) Coach (Matt) Canada and what he's done with the RPOs and play action," Trubisky said Thursday. "I did a lot of research beforehand talking to friends of mine and guys who have been here before and how I would fit in with the culture and the other guys around here. I've gotten great reviews on the coaching staff and the players here. I feel like my skillset and what they are trying to do here would match up really great."
He believes the one year as a back-up in Buffalo has been transformative. Trubisky said it was a blessing in disguise to end up with the Bills even if he didn't get to play much. He learned how key good communication is between the quarterback and play-caller. The 27-year-old also said he learned what it was like to be a part of a better organization.
"The first thing when I went to Buffalo is what a great culture feels like," Trubisky said. "I can already feel that in my short time here in Pittsburgh, just the people around the building and the people that you meet. Culture wins and I can tell when I was in Buffalo and I can tell it's a great fit here in Pittsburgh."
He said when he found out the Steelers had interest, it was where he wanted to be.
"My goal throughout free agency was to find a way to get back onto the field," said the former University of North Carolina star. "Go to a situation where I could earn a starting job. When an opportunity arose to play for Coach Tomlin and wear a Pittsburgh Steelers uniform, I was so excited."
He will wear number 10 with the Steelers and has already met Dwayne Haskins and plans to meet Mason Rudolph soon. He's talked with TJ Watt, Cam Heyward, Najee Harris, Chase Claypool, Pat Freiermuth and Diontae Johnson. He said they discussed leadership and he is anxious to prove himself.
As for what Steelers fans might see different from his game than what they saw in his first few seasons in the NFC.
"I think a lot more experience," Trubisky said. "Taking all of the games I started in Chicago and everything I learned in Buffalo, I feel like I'm a veteran now. I know what I like. I know what works. I know what great communication and great culture looks like between players and coaches. I've been a part of a lot of winning teams."
"Mentally I'm in a great space to get back on the field and do big things. I'm here to do whatever I can to help the Steelers win."
He's backing that up not just with his words, but his wallet. The contract is incentive laden with a reported $5 to $7 million base and lasts only two seasons.
"I'm in a situation where I have to prove myself back on the field, that's what I'm looking forward to do," Trubisky said. "You're always betting on yourself. I definitely am in this case. I'm lucky to land in a situation in Pittsburgh. You have to bet on yourself and just trust what you are capable of."
Trubisky expects to have the playbook Thursday afternoon and will meet with players and coaches over the next few days. His wife is with him as well. He said they want to get out and meet the people of Pittsburgh.
"I'm excited it's a great opportunity for me to get back on the field and prove that I belong as a starter in this league," Trubisky said. "I'm looking forward to utilizing my talents and help the Pittsburgh Steelers win football games any way I can. Hopefully I win them over by how I play on the field."
