The Pittsburgh Steelers' rollercoaster of a season has come to a close, marked by an unexpected trip to the postseason and an quick exit. As the offseason takes center stage, discussions about the team's quarterback situation are taking precedence, particularly the competition between Mason Rudolph and Kenny Pickett.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterbacks Mason Rudolph (2) and Kenny Pickett (8) practice at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex on the South Side.
Rudolph seized the opportunity presented to him and showcased his skills, leading the Steelers to an impressive three consecutive victories. His performances injected excitement into the Steelers' offensive game, rejuvenating the team and its fan base.
On the other hand, Pickett faced a challenging second season in the NFL. Hindered by injuries, he faced setbacks that hindered his progress. Despite eventually recovering from these injuries, Pickett found himself relegated to the sidelines for the playoffs and unable to reclaim his starting role. This turn of events left lingering uncertainties about his future with the Steelers.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter / X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers wide receiver, Diontae Johnson (#18) stands on the field at St. Vincent College with his hands on his hips during a 2022 team training camp practice in Latrobe, PA.
Diontae Johnson, one of the Steelers' key offensive weapons, recently made headlines with his candid comments about Rudolph. Johnson expressed a clear preference for Rudolph as the starting quarterback in the 2024 season. His remarks sparked curiosity and conversation among Steeler Nation and even beloved veteran.
Cam Heyward, a veteran leader on the Steelers' roster, was asked about Johnson's comments during an episode of his podcast, Not Just Football. Co-host Hayden Walsh pressed Heyward on whether Johnson's comments signaled his endorsement of Rudolph.
Heyward responded with a measured perspective, emphasizing that player opinions don't determine the quarterback situation.
“I don’t know. I look at this and I say Mason played a great year. You know he did some things right when it was his time, but you can’t play GM. The players have to play. The coaches have to coach and we will see where we are at.”
Heyward's response to the question demonstrated a degree of diplomatic restraint. He didn't delve deeply into the implications of Johnson's comments or offer an explicit endorsement of either quarterback. Instead, Heyward seemed content to let the decision-making process unfold as it should.
“Kenny got hurt and it opened up a window for Mason to play. Mason played well in his time. I don’t know what the 2024 Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback is going to look like, but we will see what happens. They got to duke it out.”
Heyward's remarks did reveal his anticipation for the upcoming quarterback competition. He acknowledged that Rudolph had performed admirably during his opportunities in the 2023 season. If Rudolph returns to the Steelers for the 2024 season, Heyward is eager to see how the competition between him and Pickett plays out.
Steelers Increased Passing With Rudolph
Heyward's perspective on the Steelers' quarterback situation brought a dose of clarity to a topic that has generated significant debate among fans and analysts. One point Heyward emphasized was the noticeable improvement in the passing game with Rudolph as the signal-caller. This observation hints at the potential impact that the choice of quarterback can have on the team's offensive strategy.
Although Rudolph demonstrated his ability to lead the Steelers to victories and elevate the team's offensive performance, the presence of Pickett complicates the quarterback equation. Pickett, a first-round draft pick, represents an investment that the Steelers are eager to see flourish, and they are determined not to make a misstep in evaluating his potential.
Tommy Gilligan / USA TODAY Sports via Reuters
Steelers QB Mason Rudolph.
As Walsh astutely pointed out, Rudolph is set to become a free agent, adding an intriguing layer to the Steelers' quarterback puzzle. The impending free agency status of Rudolph raises questions about the team's approach to his contract and whether they will pursue an extension or explore other options.
The dynamic between Rudolph and Pickett will be an intriguing storyline to follow in the upcoming offseason. The Steelers' careful evaluation of both quarterbacks and their decisions regarding Rudolph's future with the team will undoubtedly shape the direction of their quarterback position for the 2024 season and beyond.
Heyward's candid response to Johnson's comments served to address the matter without overshadowing the team's primary objective—preparation for the upcoming season. His pragmatic approach underlines the professionalism and unity that characterize him as a veteran leader in the Steelers locker room.
As the offseason unfolds and the Steelers face critical decisions regarding their quarterback situation, the competition between Rudolph and Pickett will undoubtedly be a focal point of attention. Heyward's measured and balanced reaction to Johnson's remarks reflects the team's dedication to unity and their shared aspiration for success in the 2024 season.
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