Pat Freiermuth Explains Why Steelers Are Trusting Mason Rudolph More Than Ever

The Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback situation has been very interesting to keep up with this offseason. All signs are pointing towards the Steelers getting a deal done at some point with the 41-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers. If the deal happens, Rodgers would be the starter for the 2025 season. However, as Pittsburgh waits for Rodgers' decision, they’ve made a move to bring back Mason Rudolph, who spent one season with the Tennessee Titans. Rudolph's return is an intriguing development, especially considering his pivotal role in saving the Steelers' 2023 season before leaving for free agency.

While the Steelers are still holding out hope for landing Rodgers, the team's decision to bring back Rudolph suggests that they are prepared for any scenario. Rudolph is focused on being ready for a potential starting role, should an unexpected turn of events leave him as the team's best option. His return has added an element of unpredictability to the Steelers' quarterback situation, as the franchise looks to make the right call for the future of the position.

Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth recently went on Kaboly + Mack to provide some insight into the level of trust the team has in Rudolph. According to Freiermuth, despite the uncertainty surrounding the Steelers’ quarterback situation, the coaching staff and front office have shown a great deal of confidence in Rudolph's ability to step up when needed. It’s clear that the Steelers are keeping all options on the table as they navigate the offseason and prepare for what could be a very interesting 2025 season.

"I trust Coach [Tomlin], and I trust Omar [Khan], the front office," Freiermuth said. "Everybody wants to win, everybody wants to get over the hump of not just making it to the playoffs, but finding some success."

The Steelers haven’t won a playoff game since the 2016 season, and Freiermuth is well aware of the weight this franchise carries, with critics constantly questioning their ability to overcome that postseason hurdle. 

He and the team are determined not just to end that drought but to push even further toward winning a Super Bowl. When Kaboly asked him about the team’s confidence heading into the season with Rudolph, Freiermuth didn’t hold back.

"As guys on the team, we have all the belief in Mason," Freiermuth said. "You know he made some big plays when he was here last, winning three straight games to make the playoffs. Whatever happens, happens, but we will see."

In the 2023 season, the Steelers faced significant struggles. With Kenny Pickett injured and Mitch Trubisky struggling at quarterback, the team turned to Rudolph. Rudolph quickly injected life into the offense, building incredible chemistry with George Pickens. Under his leadership, the Steelers rallied to secure three straight wins and, against all odds, clinched a playoff spot. While their playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills was a tough blow, Rudolph wasn’t the reason for the defeat—aside from one interception, he played a solid game and gave the team a fighting chance.

Steelers' Mason Rudolph Will Have A Chance To Make An Impact In 2025

Even if the Steelers manage to strike a deal with Rodgers, the 41-year-old quarterback is just one season removed from a serious Achilles injury. With the Steelers also eyeing prospects in the draft, Rudolph will have a chance to make an impact in 2025, regardless of what happens. If Rodgers does come to Pittsburgh, Rudolph won’t be the starter, but the team has confidence in him as a reliable backup if called upon.

Rudolph’s return seems to reflect the organization’s genuine faith in him. While his 2024 season in Nashville wasn’t stellar, the Steelers believe in his potential and see him as a dependable option, no matter what unfolds with Rodgers or the quarterbacks they’re evaluating in the draft. Steelers fans are excited about having Rudolph back in the fold. Though not everyone believes he should be their starter heading into 2025.

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