Veteran Options
This is probably one of the likeliest options for the Steelers after Roethlisberger hangs up the cleats. A bridge quarterback for a year or two will have to suffice, while another heir apparent is taken in the draft and sits behind a veteran option. Ryan Fitzpatrick, Mason Rudolph, and Tom Brady could be choices after next season.
Rudolph continues to gain high praise from his coaches and seems like he will get a real shot to start a full season when Roethlisberger calls it quits. That seems like the most realistic option for a bridge quarterback. He can provide continued competition when the next prospect comes in through the draft. Rudolph is nothing special and sometimes he shows flashes but work still needs to be done with his game. Fitzpatrick’s name was mentioned because he is a well-known veteran in this league and he is constantly a bridge-style player.
Now everyone will hate that Brady is on this list and maybe it is not the most realistic option. He will be about halfway through his 40s when his deal in Tampa Bay ends and he could call it quits. He just won the Super Bowl and has not shown much of a decline. If he hits free agency again and the black and gold want to go all-in with the currently constructed defense, then this would be an attractive spot for Brady to sign onto.
Likeliest option: Mason Rudolph