The NFL trade deadline is right around the corner, and the Pittsburgh Steelers are very likely to be players given their current situation. They find themselves surprise contenders in the AFC while also having a surplus of talent that could be trimmed.
The main trade talk centers on two groups. The first is adding a new receiver. While Calvin Austin has been a fine complement to DK Metcalf, he has struggled to stay healthy, and better depth is needed. From big names like Chris Olave to more minor options such as Allen Lazard, the hope is that a receiver joins the team.
On the flip side, Pat Freiermuth hasn’t seen a big role on this new-look Steelers offense. Things could be changing after his massive performance in Week 7, but the logjam at tight end could still be an issue.
However, the Steelers have a sneaky trade chip at the helm in Mason Rudolph.
Aaron Rodgers has done more than enough to keep the starting job for the remainder of the season. Rudolph likely thought that there was a real shot of him getting some playing time when he signed his deal. He could want out, and the Steelers could oblige.
The Pittsburgh Steelers could flip Mason Rudolph at the trade deadline
There are some seriously quarterback-needy teams right now. The Bengals look set after Joe Flacco diced up the Steelers, but who knows what he will look like moving forward. The Browns, meanwhile, haven’t gotten strong play from Dillion Gabriel. Even the Vikings could use a better spot starter in the short term.
Some reports have begun to surface that Rudolph isn’t a fan of his role. While he carries no leverage with the team, if he is that disappointed, he could become logical trade bait.
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One would have to think that he carries more value than Flacco did. He’s significantly younger and has proven to be capable when called upon. No, he won’t fetch a day two pick, but a fifth-round pick doesn’t seem out of the question.
While not available right now, the Steelers have some depth quarterbacks that could replace him. Skylar Thompson was getting calls to be the backup in the preseason, while Will Howard would be a fine third option.
Honestly, this decision could come down to Rodgers and what his future plans are. Right now, it seems likely that he plays one more year, and it seems like Pittsburgh would be a logical spot for that final season.
A high-round rookie feels inevitable, and that would put Rudolph back as the third option. Getting something for him now, as opposed to cutting him next spring, makes sense.
While it is far from a lock to see Rudolph get moved, there is a lot of logic in making such a deal. At the bare minimum, don’t be shocked to hear some more rumors swirl around him potentially being on the move in November.