PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – It's likely a game-time decision for Kenny Pickett on Thursday with no structural damage to his ribs. Mike Tomlin confirmed it will be Mitch Trubisky at quarterback if Pickett can't go.
Trubisky last started a game at Carolina on December 18 of last year, he didn't throw a touchdown or an interception, but did lead the Steelers to a 24-16 win. Sunday's stats against the Jags were 15-27 for 138 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions. Overall in his Steelers career, 2-3 record, 64% completion, 1,408 yards, five touchdowns and seven interceptions.
"Largely, man, Mitch (Trubisky) has done a really good job, and I'm talking about day-to-day, the things that come with being a backup quarterback in terms of being an asset to Kenny (Pickett), being an idea guy, being a really good communicator, making sure quarterbacks and receivers are on the same page, et cetera, et cetera," said Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin on Monday. "He is highly professional and really good at those things. Hasn't had a lot of opportunities to play, but when called upon, he is always ready above the neck and competitive, and so just really comfortable with him."
Tomlin was then quick to reiterate they are not ruling Pickett out and that his availability is 'up in the air' and he's not sure how the short week of two practices will look before hosting Tennessee Thursday night.
Trubisky mentioned after the game Sunday that he was trying to make a play and that led to him taking a chance and forcing a throw on the fourth quarter interception. Tomlin said he's not sure if he's seeing more aggression from Trubisky this year compared to other appearances, saying he doesn't remember some of the details of those games as he was talking on Monday.
Execution is the reason Trubisky said for the struggles of this year's offense and he might get an opportunity to start for it on Thursday.
"Just got to prepare on a short week," Trubisky said. "That's the job. WE play on a Thursday. Sometimes it's a positive thing because we get to flush the game quickly and get the taste out of our mouth and get back to the game on Thursday. We've got to flush it. Everybody's got to prepare and get ready to go on Thursday night."
"We got trust in Mitch," said Steelers center Mason Cole. "We've seen him win games for us."
