Steelers Eye Reunion with Former Quarterback Mason Rudolph

PITTSBURGH, Pa. — The Pittsburgh Steelers are exploring a potential reunion with quarterback Mason Rudolph as they address their current quarterback dilemma, according to reports.

With the 2024 NFL season behind them, the Steelers are actively seeking solutions after losing key players during free agency. The possible return of Rudolph comes as the team evaluates its options, including negotiations to potentially sign veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

In 2024, Rudolph, who went 6-6 as a starter for Pittsburgh, is seen as a critical backup option if the Steelers finalize a deal with Rodgers. If Rodgers does not join the team, Rudolph could compete for the starting role he was previously denied during his initial tenure in Pittsburgh.

Rudolph, 29, was drafted by the Steelers in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft with hopes he would be the successor to franchise legend Ben Roethlisberger. In his rookie season, he did not see any game action, but took the reins two seasons later after Roethlisberger suffered a serious injury.

In 2019, Rudolph led the Steelers to a 5-3 record, showcasing his potential during Roethlisberger’s absence. His performance included a strong finish to the 2023 season, where he completed 74.3% of his passes, throwing three touchdowns without an interception.

Despite a promising end to that year, the Steelers allowed him to enter free agency, where he eventually signed a one-year contract with the Tennessee Titans. Unfortunately, his time in Tennessee was marred by struggles, finishing 1-4 as a starter while throwing nine touchdowns and nine interceptions in the 2024 season.

Rudolph’s familiarity with several current Steelers offensive players, including wide receiver Diontae Johnson, tight end Pat Freiermuth, and running back Najee Harris, could ease his transition back into the offense. Additionally, his established rapport with head coach Mike Tomlin and senior offensive assistant Mike Sullivan, who was part of the coaching staff during Rudolph’s impressive run at the end of the 2023 season, will be beneficial.

As free agency progresses, Steelers fans are left wondering if the franchise will once again lean on the quarterback they once believed could emerge as the successor to one of the league’s all-time greats.