The Pittsburgh Steelers are heading into the 2025 season with significant uncertainty at the quarterback position. Despite being linked to veteran free agent Aaron Rodgers, no official decision has been made, leaving the team without a clear starter. Mason Rudolph is currently the most experienced option on the roster, and while he has familiarity with the team, questions remain about whether can lead the franchise indefinitely. With offseason programs underway and the regular season approaching, the lack of clarity continues to be a major storyline for the organization.
Steelers.com
Steelers QB Mason Rudolph smiles during his early years in Pittsburgh.
Rudolph recently appeared on the Kaboly+Mack Podcast, where he opened up about all things related to the Steelers. Aware that the team is likely to bring in another quarterback, most likely Rodgers, Rudolph acknowledged that there would be some competition. When asked about his mindset going into the season amidst all the uncertainty, he shared his thoughts on staying focused and being ready for whatever comes next.
"Keep having a great spring, enjoying working with the receivers, learning the offense, making the most of every rep I can get. That’s what I did in 2023, that’s what I’ve done my whole career, and you get opportunities and then you just gotta be ready to capitalize when they come," Rudolph shared.
Rudolph has had a unique journey with the Steelers since being drafted in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Initially, he was brought in as a developmental quarterback behind Steelers legend Ben Roethlisberger, but Rudolph has experienced both starting and backup roles during his time in Pittsburgh. While he hasn’t always been the main guy of the offense, his familiarity with the Steelers and leadership in the locker room have made him a reliable presence.
Steelers fans have had mixed feelings about Rudolph throughout his time in Pittsburgh. While some fans appreciate his dedication and ability to step in when needed, others remain skeptical about his ceiling as a long-term starting quarterback. His performances have shown flashes of greatness, but many fans still view him as more of a dependable backup than a franchise leader. That said, his return to the team and willingness to compete has earned him renewed respect among some of the fan base, particularly as the Steelers face uncertainty at the quarterback position.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph never really got his chance early on to prove what he could do.
If the regular season kicked off today, Rudolph would most likely be the starting quarterback for the Steelers. However, many believe that the more probable scenario is the eventual signing of free agent Rodgers. While Rodgers brings an impressive resume and Hall of Fame credentials, opinions about him are divided, largely due to his off-field behavior. The prolonged delay in his response to the Steelers’ reported offer has only added to fans' frustration and concern about his commitment and fit with the team.
Rodgers is currently also 41 years old, making him the oldest active player in the NFL. In a league as physically demanding as the NFL, age is a legitimate concern, especially when paired with a recent history of injuries. During the very first offensive drive of the 2023 season, which also was his debut with the New York Jets, Rodgers sustained a significant Achilles injury. That injury sidelined him for the entire season and has since raised questions about his physicality moving forward.
Steelers Still Waiting On Rodgers
Rodgers has made efforts to show that he’s still got plenty left in the tank. He was spotted tossing the football around with the Steelers’ newly acquired veteran wide receiver, DK Metcalf. This meeting sparked plenty of discussion, with many speculating that the purpose was to remind people of his abilities, even as he continues to keep quiet about his future in the NFL. While he hasn’t made a final decision yet, the public workout sent a message that Rodgers still believes he can perform at a high level, and that he wants to.
Ed Mulholland / Imagn Images
Former New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers looks on before a home game.
While the Steelers currently face uncertainty at the quarterback position, they aren’t without options. If Rodgers decides not to sign with the team, Pittsburgh still has Rudolph, whose familiarity with the organization and steady mindset bring value both on the field and in the locker room. His experience within the system provides a sense of continuity and leadership during this time. Regardless of the outcome, Steelers fans will be anxiously waiting to see who will be the team’s starting quarterback this fall.
What are your overall thoughts about Rudolph back in Pittsburgh? Comment below!
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