As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Pittsburgh Steelers face a crucial decision regarding the future of their quarterback room—and at the center of that decision is Mason Rudolph. The former third-round pick from the 2018 draft has returned to the team that selected him. His two-year, $8 million deal suggests the Steelers see him as more than a depth piece.
It’s a modest but meaningful investment that signals confidence from the front office in Rudolph’s ability to contribute to a winning culture.
Rudolph’s reunion with the Steelers is a vote of confidence, but it’s also a moment of uncertainty. As it stands now, he is Pittsburgh’s starting quarterback heading into the 2025 season. However, that could change depending on how things unfold on draft night.
The Steelers hold the 21st overall pick and have been tied to several quarterback prospects, most notably Jaxson Dart from Ole Miss and Shedeur Sanders of Colorado. The interest in drafting a signal-caller is no secret—Pittsburgh appears committed to finding their future quarterback.
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Complicating matters is the potential addition of veteran Aaron Rodgers. The future Hall of Famer had a highly publicized visit with the franchise in late March, sparking rumors of a late-career run in black and gold.
Relying on Mason Rudolph to be a bridge QB optimizes Pittsburgh Steelers' draft capital
Rodgers has yet to commit, and the longer he remains undecided, the more crucial it becomes for the Steelers to define their direction—whether that means building around Rudolph or continuing to search elsewhere.
Regardless of who else enters the quarterback conversation, Mason Rudolph is almost guaranteed to see the field in 2025. He’s the ideal bridge quarterback: experienced within the system, familiar with the coaching staff, and competent enough to hold down the fort while the franchise plans for the future.
His 2024 campaign with the Titans wasn’t flashy—he threw for 1,530 yards, nine touchdowns, and nine interceptions across eight games—but he managed the offense and kept Tennessee competitive during key stretches.
Riding with Rudolph next season wouldn’t just be a sign of loyalty—it would be a measured approach. Rather than using valuable draft capital on a rookie quarterback who may need time to develop, the Steelers could reinforce other areas of need and return to the quarterback market in 2026, a class already projected to be stronger.
Yes, growing pains are inevitable with Rudolph at the helm, but they are also unavoidable with a rookie or a declining Rodgers. The Steelers must decide whether to roll the dice on a college prospect, wait on Rodgers, or fully embrace Rudolph as their short-term answer.
One thing is clear: the Steelers brought Rudolph back for a reason. With the draft looming, it’s time for the organization to declare where their loyalty truly lies.