Diontae Johnson opens up about his relationship with new Steelers QB Mitch Trubisky
Diontae Johnson is going to have a new quarterback under center with Mitch Trubisky in town, replacing Ben Roethlisberger. The two are already forming a good relationship, too.
The Steelers signed Trubisky to a two-year deal earlier this offseason as the heir apparent to Roethlisberger, who retired after the 2021 campaign. But Pittsburgh also selected a quarterback in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, choosing former Pitt star Kenny Pickett as the No. 20 overall pick. That could make things interesting with a potential quarterback competition.
Through OTAs and as mandatory minicamp gets underway, Johnson acknowledged how things are without Roethlisberger running the offense. But he and Trubisky are getting along well, and it’s making for some good vibes heading into training camp.
“It’s different,” Johnson said, via Steelers.com’s Teresa Varley. “Other than Mason, it’s Chris, Kenny, and Mitch. Getting to know those three, just seeing what they do different. Picking their brain.
“I am really picking Mitch’s brain, trying to get that relationship with him. That is what is most exciting to me. Taking it a day at a time. When we are in practice, if a ball is coming my way, whatever play it is, just show that communication that we do have. I want to show it’s going to continue to grow for everybody. … We’re cool friends right now. He is a cool dude. It’s good.”
ESPN insider updates Steelers quarterback competition between Mitch 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.
“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 it’s just a matter of when he plays.”