The 2017 rookie quarterback class overachieved in the eyes of many during the NFL preseason. For a group that many panned for one reason or another, they came off really well. None more so than the top picks. NFL Network analyst and former scout Daniel Jeremiah was tasked with giving them all a report card for their performances this August. So what was the Mitch Trubisky grade?
That’s all Chicago Bears fans want to know. Well certain players like Cooper Rush (Dallas), DeShone Kizer (Cleveland) and Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City) earned high B grades for their efforts. Good stuff, just not quite good enough. Amazing as it sounds, the Bears’ top pick outshined them all with the only A in the entire class.
“Mitchell Trubisky: A
Preseason analysis: Trubisky has been outstanding in the preseason. He’s thrown with timing, accuracy and touch. He shows plenty of arm strength to drive the ball and looks comfortable working through progressions from inside the pocket. He’s also shown impressive athleticism, throwing on the move or picking up free yards with his legs when the opportunities arise.
Areas for improvement: I don’t think there’s a lot to criticize, based on his play in the preseason. He did miss a couple of easy underneath throws and will occasionally lock on his first read, but the good has far outweighed the bad. The biggest thing he needs: more game reps.”
Mitch Trubisky grade showcases how quickly he’s developing
Of course preseason grades don’t indicate whether a player will have a successful career, but it does showcase whether they have that capability. All anybody could talk about for months was the same thing. Trubisky only started 13 games in college. He didn’t have enough experience. NFL teams would eat him alive.
Except no. At least not through four games they haven’t. Trubisky finished the preseason completing 67.9% of his passes for 364 yards and three touchdowns without a turnover. Throughout that time his accuracy, poise and athleticism were all on display.
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Despite all that the Bears coaching staff remained unconvinced he’s ready to start. Not a surprise. John Fox is an old school, conservative coach. He would never start a rookie at any position if it could be avoided. Mike Glennon, worthy or not, is going to get the first crack. How long that lasts depends on the win-loss record through the first month or so of the season.
Until then Trubisky will be able to sit back, relax and wait his turn.