Steelers sign former Penn State QB Trace McSorley to practice squad

In the wake of Kenny Pickett undergoing surgery Monday to repair a high ankle sprain, the Pittsburgh Steelers signed former Penn State quarterback Trace McSorley to the practice squad.

McSorley, a sixth-round draft pick of the Baltimore Ravens in 2019, was on the New England Patriots’ roster in the preseason. The Steelers play the Patriots on Thursday night at Acrisure Stadium.

After being released by the Patriots, McSorley joined the Chicago Bears practice squad. He was released Nov. 21.

McSorley, 28, likely will be elevated from the practice squad from the game to serve as the Steelers’ emergency quarterback. Mitch Trubisky is scheduled to start in place of Pickett, and Mason Rudolph will serve as the backup.

At his weekly press conference Monday, coach Mike Tomlin said the Steelers would address the quarterback vacancy “within 24 hours” without naming McSorley.

McSorley has appeared in nine career NFL games, starting one for the Arizona Cardinals last season. His lone touchdown pass came with Baltimore in 2020, and it came in a relief appearance against the Steelers.

He threw five interceptions last year in six games with Arizona.

McSorley left Penn State as the school’s record-holder in wins, completions, passing yards, passing touchdowns and rushing yards by a quarterback.

In a corresponding move, the Steelers released receiver Jacob Copeland from the practice squad.