The Pittsburgh Steelers have been uncertain about their starting quarterback for the 2025 season for several months now. When the 2024 season ended, Team President Art Rooney II stated that the team had interest in either Russell Wilson or Justin Fields, the two quarterbacks who played for Pittsburgh that year. However, both players signed cheap deals elsewhere in free agency—contracts the Steelers easily could have matched. That signaled a clear lack of interest in retaining either Wilson or Fields, leaving the team without a clear answer at quarterback heading into the offseason.
Amid the uncertainty, the Steelers have been heavily linked to veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, with ongoing speculation that they could strike a deal to bring him to Pittsburgh for the 2025 season.
While Rodgers remains a possibility, fans are growing impatient as the team has yet to make an official move. In the meantime, the Steelers brought back Mason Rudolph after spending one season away. Depending on how the offseason plays out, Rudolph could have a legitimate chance to start, especially if Pittsburgh fails to land a more proven option.
Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin addressed the media on Sunday afternoon, where he spoke about Rudolph’s return. Tomlin expressed excitement about the quarterback rejoining the team, emphasizing that Rudolph will have a fresh opportunity to compete for a role in Pittsburgh. While some fans remain skeptical about Rudolph’s ability to lead the team, Tomlin’s comments suggest that the veteran quarterback will have every chance to prove himself as a potential starter in 2025.
"I think that's why we reacquired him," Tomlin told Steelers insider Mike DeFabo on Sunday afternoon. "We like Mason Rudolph, but you know, that's no secret."
Tomlin expressed genuine enthusiasm about Rudolph’s return, emphasizing the value of his prior experience with the team and the strong relationships he has built within the locker room. He highlighted how Rudolph’s familiarity with the Steelers’ system, coaching staff, and overall culture provides a sense of continuity that could be beneficial as the team works through its quarterback situation.
Tomlin also noted that having a quarterback who understands the expectations in Pittsburgh is an advantage, especially during a time of transition. While the Steelers continue to evaluate their options, Rudolph’s presence offers stability and a sense of reliability at the position, which could prove crucial as the team prepares for the 2025 season.
That reliability is certainly up for debate among Steelers fans, many of whom remain skeptical about Rudolph’s ability to lead the team. However, within the organization, it’s clear that Tomlin and several players view his experience and familiarity with the system as an asset. While opinions outside the locker room may be mixed, those inside the building seem to believe Rudolph brings a level of stability that could be valuable as the team navigates its quarterback situation.
Steelers Could Seriously Go With Mason Rudolph In 2025
If the Steelers do end up bringing Rodgers to Pittsburgh, Rudolph’s chances of starting would all but disappear. However, with Rodgers now 41 years old and just one season removed from a serious injury, there’s still a scenario where Rudolph could see the field. In 2023, he was relegated to third-string duties for most of the season, but when called upon, he stepped up and ultimately saved the Steelers' playoff hopes, leading them into the postseason with three straight wins.
Rudolph’s presence gave the Steelers' offense a noticeable spark, as his ability to push the ball downfield helped open things up. He developed strong chemistry with George Pickens, giving the passing game a much-needed boost. While the organization and many players clearly have respect for Rudolph, most analysts still view him as a career backup rather than a legitimate long-term starter.
Regardless of how the quarterback situation unfolds, Rudolph is firmly in the mix, and his return signals that the team values his presence. The Steelers wouldn’t have signed him to a two-year, $7.5 million deal—including $3 million guaranteed—if they didn’t see him as a viable option. Whether he ends up as a starter or remains in a backup role, it’s clear that Tomlin views Rudolph as an important piece of the team’s plans moving forward.
