Buffalo Bills quarterback Mitch Trubisky has been sidelined after suffering a knee injury during the team’s second preseason game, leaving the Bills in a tough spot as they prepare for the 2024 NFL season opener. To address the situation, the team has reportedly signed free agent quarterback Anthony Brown, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. ESPN’s Alaina Getzenberg reports that Trubisky is expected to miss “multiple weeks” due to the injury.
This development complicates the Bills’ preparations for Week 1, where they are set to face the Arizona Cardinals. With Trubisky out, the question arises: could Anthony Brown step up and potentially become Josh Allen’s backup?
There’s no doubt that Josh Allen is the cornerstone of the Bills’ offense, and the team’s success heavily depends on his performance. However, having a reliable backup is crucial, especially in case of an emergency. Initially, it seemed clear that Trubisky would be the go-to backup for Allen. But Trubisky’s performance this preseason has been underwhelming, raising concerns even before his injury. He struggled to create big plays and threw a forgettable interception that reminded many why he’s no longer with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Trubisky’s preseason stats—168 yards on 19-of-31 passing with no touchdowns and an interception—did little to inspire confidence. His play has mirrored the inconsistencies that have plagued him since being drafted second overall by the Chicago Bears in 2017.
Now, with Anthony Brown in the mix, there’s a possibility that he could challenge Trubisky for the backup role. Brown’s performance in the upcoming preseason game against the Carolina Panthers will be crucial. Alongside newly signed quarterback Ben DiNucci, Brown is expected to see significant playing time, especially in the second half.
Brown, who went undrafted out of Oregon, spent the 2022 season with the Baltimore Ravens, appearing in two games. His performance with the Ravens was modest, completing 22-of-49 passes for 302 yards with no touchdowns and two interceptions. While DiNucci doesn’t have a standout resume either, both quarterbacks are new to the Bills’ roster, making the competition for the backup spot wide open.
With the regular season just weeks away, Brown has a chance to make a strong impression and potentially secure a spot as the Bills’ No. 2 quarterback behind Josh Allen.
