Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback, Kenny Pickett had a difficult start on Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, just the second one of his career. In the midst of it, he left the game after entering concussion protocol. Veteran Mitch Trubisky replaced Pickett and performed quite well. He helped lead the offense to a 20-18 win, helping the team improve to 2-4.
Steelers QB Mitch Trubisky pilots offense in 2nd half vs. Tampa Bay. Photo credit - Karl Roser/Pittsburgh Steelers
In head coach Mike Tomlin's press conference on Tuesday, he said that Pickett would not be limited in practice this week. That's despite the rookie quarterback still being in the concussion protocol, but it doesn't mean he's cleared. If Pickett is indeed cleared in time for Sunday's game against the Miami Dolphins though, he will be the starter over Trubisky, Tomlin announced.
This confirmed what former QB Ben Roethlisberger had to say in this week's episode of his podcast. There was some debate on just who would start, especially after Trubisky outperformed Pickett in Week 6. Due to the rookie being the team's future, franchise quarterback if you will, it wouldn't have been a good look to go back to Trubisky.
Again, this doesn't mean Pickett will play this week. There's still a ways to go for him to clear the concussion protocol. Last week, starting tight end Pat Freiermuth was available throughout the week, but was unable to be cleared in time for Sunday. Tomlin did state that while Freiermuth hasn't officially been cleared for Week 7 yet, he expects him to return to action this weekend. He will be a full participant in practice on Wednesday.
Credit: Jordan Schofield/SteelerNation (JSKO_PHOTO Twitter)
Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa will return to the lineup against the Steelers this weekend, as he comes off a dangerous concussion (or two) just a few weeks ago. It was Tagovailoa's concussion that has altered the league's policy in that aspect over the last few weeks. As a result, teams are taking it cautious with concussions, like the black and gold are with Freiermuth and Pickett.
Can the Steelers beat the Dolphins if Trubisky has to step in and start? What were your thoughts on the performances of the two quarterbacks on Sunday? Do you agree with Tomlin sticking with Pickett as the starter? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comment section below, as well as on our social media sites!
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