Last year, Trubisky, 29, signed a two-year extension with the Steelers, but the team decided to move on as he had no guaranteed money left on his deal. Despite starting two games for Pittsburgh last season, Trubisky failed to impress and eventually lost his job to Mason Rudolph. Now, the former No. 2 overall pick from the 2017 NFL Draft and former Buffalo Bills backup is seeking a new team and a reunion with the Bills could benefit both parties. Here are five reasons why Trubisky could return to Buffalo.
1. Bills prefer veteran backups: Over the years, Buffalo has preferred to have a veteran quarterback as the team’s No. 2 option. Matt Barkley, Mitch Trubisky, Case Keenum, and Kyle Allen have all served as backup quarterbacks to Allen. Therefore, adding a quarterback who is familiar with Allen and the locker room in general makes sense.
2. Trubisky is a reasonable veteran option: While Buffalo could draft a quarterback to develop as their No. 2, Trubisky makes sense as a veteran option until the Bills prove otherwise.
3. Cost-effective: After failing to impress during his two seasons in Pittsburgh, it would be surprising to see any team offer Trubisky a chance to start or pay him significant money. With the Bills lacking cap space, the price may be right for a reunion.
4. Does not factor into the compensatory pick formula: Trubisky will not factor into the compensatory pick formula for any team that signs him after being released by the Steelers. This may make him appealing to Brandon Beane.
5. Bills have many roster spots to fill: Buffalo has many roster spots to fill this offseason, so they may not be in a position to try and land some in next year’s draft. However, it’s something for Beane and the Bills to consider.
Trubisky received high praise from both Brandon Beane and Sean McDermott. Beane spoke highly of Trubisky’s time in Buffalo, stating that he was a great addition to the team and had nothing but positive things to say about him. Beane even went as far as to tell Trubisky that the team would have a spot for him if he didn’t get the offer he wanted in free agency. McDermott also commended Trubisky for his work ethic and approach, describing him as a consummate professional. Trubisky reciprocated the love for Buffalo, expressing his admiration for the coaching staff and the caliber of players on the team.