Mitchell Trubisky, a seasoned quarterback who once led the Chicago Bears and is now vying for a backup position with the Buffalo Bills, recently reflected on his time in Chicago and expressed his aspirations for the future. Drafted second overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, Trubisky’s story has been a surprising tale. As he’s evolved from a potential franchise savior to the career backup role, the urge to regain his role as a starting quarterback is prevalent.
Trubisky started his NFL career with the Chicago Bears from 2017-2020. However, in 2018, he had a breakout year that propelled the Bears to a stunning 12-4 record. He won the NFC North by throwing 24 TDs to just 12 INTs. His performance solidified him as one of the most exciting young quarterback prospects in the league.
Joining the Buffalo Bills in 2021, after his initial stint with the Bears, Trubisky would play as a backup quarterback. He went on to play for the Pittsburgh Steelers through the 2022 and 2023 seasons. Though he opened the 2022 campaign as the starter, he moved into a backup role as the year progressed, playing second fiddle to Kenny Pickett. Trubisky’s return to the Bills in 2024 on a two-year deal marks a significant chapter in his career, as he aims to solidify his place in the team’s quarterback room.
At the moment, Trubisky is battling with Mike White for the No. 2 QB job behind Josh Allen. Despite Allen’s impressive track record of not missing a game since his rookie season, Trubisky remains focused on making the most of every opportunity to prove his readiness.
“No matter how many reps I get, I’m focused on making the reps I get the best as possible so I can continue and improve my game and continue to stay ready.” – Mitch Trubisky.
Trubisky has been focused on developing his accuracy and ball placement in practice before sessions turn competitive. In a recent New England Patriots preseason game against the New York Giants, he proved how it’s done. He missed most of the season before returning to finish 9 of 13 for 138 yards and a touchdown. This performance showcased his potential and underscored his commitment to regaining a starting role.
Bills’ starting quarterback Josh Allen was effusive in his praise about the former North Carolina star’s work ethic and consistency. Their unique friendship has created a culture of respect among players on the team.
“Mitch is, every day he’s the same exact guy,” said Josh Allen.
He further added, “He knows who he is. He works extremely hard. He’s doing everything he can right now to continue to improve. I love him and I love all the quarterbacks in our room.”
General Manager Brandon Beane asserted confidence in Trubisky’s abilities, emphasizing his experience and familiarity with the team’s system. Beane went on to stress the importance of having Trubisky on the roster. All of this would be particularly useful if Allen were to suffer an injury mid-game.
“We’ve got a lot of confidence in Mitch. We really do,” stated Brandon Beane.
Beane noted Trubisky’s familiarity with the organization. This certainly has given him an advantage over the other rookie quarterbacks, namely Mike White and Shane Buechele.
“If you walked in that [quarterback] room, you couldn’t tell if it was training camp, we’re in a battle, or if it was frickin’ Week 2 of last year,” said White.
Trubisky still wants to be a franchise quarterback though. He knows he’s fighting for a chance to be a backup. His top priority, like any player, would be to return to his starting role.
“It’s tough sometimes, I think, cause you always want to stay in the moment and take it day by day, but, I mean, the long-term goal is definitely to be a starter and a franchise guy somewhere again,” he reflected.
The most important contributing factor to Trubisky’s sunny disposition may be the prevailing culture inside the Bills organization. What he’s enjoyed the most is the nurturing atmosphere fostered by fellow players as well as coaches.
“I think it’s just the culture that they’ve built here. The type of guys we bring into the team and the families,” he noted.
As Trubisky paths this gritty field of dreams, he’s still playing Cardboard Cutout #5. His relationship with the other players and coaching staff is very much the bedrock upon which his character development is built.
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