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Why Steelers Mason Rudolph should be given a shot at redemption

By Jobe Morrison

PITTSBURGH, PA - NOVEMBER 10: Mason Rudolph #2 of the Pittsburgh Steelers celebrates after defeating the Los Angeles Rams on November 10, 2019 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA - NOVEMBER 10: Mason Rudolph #2 of the Pittsburgh Steelers celebrates after defeating the Los Angeles Rams on November 10, 2019 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /
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CINCINNATI, OH – NOVEMBER 24: Mason Rudolph #2 of the Pittsburgh Steelers watches from the sidelines after being benched in the third quarter of the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium on November 24, 2019, in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Bobby Ellis/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OH – NOVEMBER 24: Mason Rudolph #2 of the Pittsburgh Steelers watches from the sidelines after being benched in the third quarter of the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium on November 24, 2019, in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Bobby Ellis/Getty Images) /

He’s not the only quarterback to struggle in year one

On my final note, I will continue the comparison game–because that’s just what we do in sports. We compare the offense with Ben under center to Mason, Patrick Mahomes to Mitch Trubisky, and even Michael Jordan to Lebron James.

I could discuss the injuries to the skill position players throughout the season, but it is what it is. Everyone works through those.

Instead, consider this: sometimes it just takes some time for a QB to get the rhythm. I am not saying you’re not justified in being unsatisfied after the 2019 season–we live in a NOW society; got to have it (success) now!

Two examples off the bat: Alex Smith and Terry Bradshaw.

Let’s say that is the floor and ceiling for Mason Rudolph: a serviceable QB at worse or a stud QB at best. It’s too early to tell–that’s just reality.

Both of these QBs had grueling starts to their careers. Both were number 1 overall selections in their respective drafts. If they had simply been cut or dismissed after a few seasons, one would not grow into a serviceable QB that has led two franchises back into the postseason and the other would not have led his teams to 4 Super Bowls in 6 years.

Mason Rudolph had a very tough start in 2019. Let’s all slow down and have just a little perspective. Who is to say the experiences don’t create growth going into 2020? Who is to say that the factors we mentioned earlier were bigger than we thought?

I could make excuse after excuse for him. But like you, I am on the outside looking in. It’s to the Steelers and Mason to do what is necessary for him to have a better chance in the future for success.

Next. Should the Steelers bid on TE Eric Ebron if available?. dark

I want to be clear, the 2019 Mason Rudolph season was far from perfect. However, one season does not have to be the judge, jury, and executioner of a career. If he can overcome the rough start and the Steelers can surround him with those who can help him develop–we could see a very serviceable QB in the future.

Check back in the Stillcurtain.com for the upcoming offseason analysis, news, and more!

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