As the Pittsburgh Steelers approach their critical Week 17 showdown against the Seattle Seahawks, the quarterback debate has taken center stage among fans and analysts alike. With Kenny Pickett declaring his readiness to play, the coaching staff's decision on the starting quarterback has been a hot topic of discussion.
However, amid the spotlight shining on familiar names like Pickett, Mason Rudolph, and Mitchell Trubisky, there's another quarterback who has quietly garnered praise within the Steelers' organization, Trace McSorley.
During a interview with members of the media on Thursday, Mike Sullivan, the Steelers quarterbacks coach, commended McSorley for his positive impact on the team and the quarterback room. While never mentioned in the ongoing quarterback debate, McSorley's contributions have not gone unnoticed by those within the team.
“I also would add Trace, who’s been a great addition, he’s fitting right in. And I think everyone is singularly focused on a great challenge that is in Seattle and really focusing on that.”
Steelers QB Trace McSorley Is A Hidden Gem
The presence of McSorley is intriguing and the comments by Sullivan add another element, shedding light on his journey and his potential role in the Steelers' future. Sullivan's recent remarks about McSorley being a "great addition" to the team have sparked curiosity among Steeler Nation. Despite not being a marquee name like Pickett, Rudolph, or even Trubisky, McSorley's presence seems to have a positive impact in the locker room and Sullivan has noticed. But who is McSorley, and what does he bring to the table?
McSorley, now 28 years old, was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the sixth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. During his NFL career, McSorley has appeared in nine games and made one start. While his statistics don't jump off the page—with 48 completions on 93 attempts for 502 yards, one touchdown, and five interceptions—he has shown resilience and a willingness to learn and adapt.
McSorley's journey to the NFL was shaped by his college football career at Penn State, where he became a beloved figure among fans. His collegiate success and his ability to connect with the community made him one of the most loved quarterbacks in the nation. Despite just being on the practice squad for the Steelers, McSorley's local ties and his positive attitude have endeared him to the fan base.
Despite limited playing time, McSorley's attitude, work ethic, and willingness to support the team have clearly contributed to the overall atmosphere within the organization. In a season marked by uncertainties and the need for depth at the quarterback position, McSorley's readiness to step in and provide valuable contributions has been a reassuring presence. Even though he may not ever be the starting quarterback, his role in the team's preparation and his ability to emulate opposing quarterbacks during practice cannot be understated. As the Steelers continue to battle for their slim playoff hopes, the cohesiveness and productivity of the quarterback room become increasingly crucial.
With Trubisky's tenure in Pittsburgh not panning out as expected, there may be an opportunity for McSorley to ascend from the practice squad and secure a spot as the third quarterback on the depth chart. His growing knowledge of the team's system and his experience working with the coaching staff could position him favorably for such a role.
In the short term, the focus remains on the Steelers' playoff aspirations, with Rudolph set to start against the Seahawks. However, it's reassuring to know that the Steelers have a hidden gem in McSorley in a different way—a quarterback who may not be in the limelight, but plays a valuable role in shaping the team's dynamics and future prospects.
More must-reads: