The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing a major decision regarding their backup quarterback, Mason Rudolph. He led the team to the postseason and won three consecutive regular season games before that. When the organization needed Rudolph the most, he stepped up and saved Mike Tomlin's record of never having a losing season. Rudolph built out quite a resume to end the season, but with his upcoming free agency, the Steelers must determine whether or not to retain him.
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Steelers' Mason Rudolph and Mike Tomlin.
A lot of questions remain unanswered regarding Rudolph and the Steelers. The team has expressed interest in having Rudolph return, but the decision ultimately lies with him. Rumors are circulating that Rudolph may be seeking a fresh opportunity elsewhere, where he can have a legit chance to be the starting quarterback. However, he has expressed a ton of love for the Steelers’ organization and hopes that they can reach an agreement.
According to Mark Kaboly of The Athletic, he believes that Rudolph would be willing to return to the Steelers under one condition - that he is given the opportunity to compete for the starting job. This is something that he hasn't had the chance to do for a couple of seasons, until he broke out in December of the 2023 season.
The Steelers fan base is currently left in a state of uncertainty as they try to figure out what value Rudolph holds in the free agency market. Rudolph himself is also eager to know the same thing.
We have witnessed in the past, instances where a second-string quarterback replaces the starter and plays exceptionally well. This leads to them receiving a substantial amount of money from another team that is willing to take a risk on them based on their performance with a limited sample size. However, due to the Steelers' commitment to Kenny Pickett, the quarterback situation becomes more intricate and complicated.
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Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback, Kenny Pickett.
In terms of Rudolph's standing with football pundits, we have some new insight. Randy Mueller of The Athletic, listed his top free agents. He ranked Rudolph as the sixth-best quarterback in free agency.
Rudolph now holds a higher rank compared to Gardner Minshew, Joe Flacco, Jacoby Brissett, and Jameis Winston, who were not even considered to be in the same league as Rudolph before the 2023 season. It is quite notable that Rudolph has improved his rank significantly.
Mueller has ranked the top 10 quarterbacks in the current free agency class according to his opinion. Steelers fans are keeping a keen eye on this due to reports that they may be interested in bringing in a free agent QB.
The list is headed by 36-year-old Kirk Cousins, with Baker Mayfield, Sam Darnold, Tyrod Taylor, and Ryan Tannehill following. All five quarterbacks rank higher than Rudolph. As the free agency market approaches, the future of Rudolph's career remains uncertain, and only time will tell where he will end up.
Steelers' Season Saved By Mason Rudolph
Rudolph truly shined during his 2023 season with the Steelers, especially in December when he got his chance to fill in for the struggling Mitch Trubisky. Across three regular season games, Rudolph showcased his prowess by racking up 719 passing yards and delivering three touchdowns. Impressively, he took care of the football, avoiding any interceptions. His resilience was put to the test in the challenging weather conditions of the Week 18 showdown against the Baltimore Ravens, yet he remained undeterred as he guided the Steelers in a must win game.
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Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback, Mason Rudolph.
Rudolph earned the opportunity to lead the Steelers into the postseason, facing off against the Buffalo Bills. While he initially faced challenges, Rudolph's determination propelled him to perform admirably. With the Steelers ultimately being outgunned, Rudolph's valiant effort couldn't extend their magical run. In the 31-17 loss to the Bills, Rudolph displayed his abilities by throwing for 229 yards, two touchdowns, and sadly one interception.
Now, the spotlight shifts to Rudolph as he contemplates the next chapter of his career. With uncertainty swirling around him, Rudolph reflects on his past achievements and envisions new opportunities, ready to continue to carve out his legacy.
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