Steelers Mason Rudolph Reveals Inspiring Aaron Rodgers Moment

The Pittsburgh Steelers have yet to finalize their quarterback plans for the 2025 season. They only have two options in truth, but they await a major decision from one of these players. 

Pittsburgh reunited with Mason Rudolph during the offseason and as of now he would be their starting quarterback. But the Steelers also lead the sweepstakes to sign veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers as well. 

The issue here? Rodgers has been contemplating retirement and a commitment from him is a major unknown at this point. The former Green Bay Packers and New York Jets quarterback has also revealed that he is dealing with some personal matters off the field though those are not believed to be impacting his decision. 

This puts Rudolph in an awkward spot. The starting job belongs to him, but an odd set of circumstances leaves an asterisk next to that current status. Rudolph has spent years with Pittsburgh, so there is some loyalty that comes into play here too. 

However, he has not chosen to be bitter about the situation. In fact, he recently shared a story from his rookie season when Rodgers took a moment to introduce himself after a preseason game. 

"I had a rough, early outing, and he came over and said hello and offered some words of encouragement and motivated me to keep working hard," Rudolph said, per Steelers insider Mark Kaboly. "It doesn’t happen a lot. He went out of his way to say hello to me, and that was awesome."

Lately, Rodgers has mostly been recognized for his controversial opinions that have changed the way many view him. Rudolph's anecdote reminds that there is still a football player and competitor behind the quirky mask the veteran has donned in recent years. 

If Rodgers ultimately decides to return to the NFL for one more season, it will be with the Steelers and he will be the starter. That means Rudolph will slide back into a role he has known well with the team. 

The Steelers and their fans are all hoping this decision comes sooner than later so that all parties can move forward. But for now, everyone is playing the waiting game and will operate under Rodgers' schedule.