ESPN insider updates Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback competition between Mitchell Trubisky, Kenny Pickett

As the Pittsburgh Steelers approach their first season without Ben Roethlisberger at quarterback, competition for the job is set to begin. While Mitchell Trubisky is considered by many to be the early favorite after the Steelers added him to their roster, the Steelers are determined to make the quarterback battle between him and rookie Kenny Pickett an even contest from the start.

Steelers prepare for quarterback competition

“From what I’m hearing Mitchell Trubisky has the inside track on the first team reps at least right now,” said ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler on SportsCenter. I recently texted with Trubisky he told me he quote ‘definitely can’t wait for this quarterback battle.’ And he’s looked the part so far, I’m told. The Steelers have been very pleased with his arm strength, mobility, how he’s ingratiated himself with teammates but I’m also told the Steelers really want to play no favorites here throughout the process. All three quarterbacks including Mason Rudolph will get those game simulated reps through the next three to four months. And as a source told me, ‘Look we didn’t draft Kenny Pickett for him to sit all that long.’ So its just a matter of when he plays.”

While Steelers fans are likely glad to hear that their quarterback future is looking bright early, it’s unlikely that they will know who the guy is for Week One for some time still. Mason Rudolph is still in the mix as well and is the most familiar with the team after serving as Roethlisberger’s understudy and getting starts in his absences.

Despite the promise that Trubisky has shown early, the idea that Pittsburgh drafted Pickett to play means the job will be his to win throughout the season, even if he needs some time to reach the polish they expect their quarterback to show.