As the NFL world buzzes with excitement for the 2025 season, CBS Sports' strength of schedule rankings added a sobering layer of reality for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
According to NFL writer John Breech, the Steelers face the 10th-hardest schedule in the league, based on their opponents’ combined 2024 win-loss record of 152-137. It is a tough challenge for any team. But for the Steelers, who are still unsettled at quarterback, it’s a mountain.
Right now, all eyes are quietly turning to Mason Rudolph.
The offseason is filled with uncertainty in Pittsburgh. George Pickens is gone. The offensive line remains a question mark. There is also no official word on who will take the reins at center. But if Rudolph is the guy the franchise chooses to lead this team, CBS’s strength of schedule rankings could not have hit at a worse time.
When I saw the rankings myself, I could not help but feel the pressure now resting on Rudolph’s shoulders. He’s no stranger to the Steelers’ system—he has been around, filled in, and won a few games. But he has never had the full weight of a season placed on him.
While the door hasn't completely closed shut on Aaron Rodgers yet, Rudolph would be the quarterback steering the ship if the season started today... and he would be in for the ultimate challenge.
The Pittsburgh Steelers' 2025 NFL Schedule is the ultimate test for Mason Rudolph
This time, it’s different. This time, there are no excuses.
Facing a slate of playoff-caliber opponents week after week is going to expose weaknesses fast. The margin for error is razor-thin. For a quarterback still trying to prove he belongs, this is either a breakout opportunity or a harsh exit.
The Steelers cannot afford to stumble early. With a fanbase demanding results and a head coach like Mike Tomlin who refuses to rebuild, Pittsburgh needs a steady hand at quarterback.
If that’s going to be Mason Rudolph, he’ll have to earn it through grit, leadership, and consistent play against top-tier teams.
READ MORE: Ex-Steelers headache sends daunting challenges to offense's only hope
There’s still time before Week 1. Training camp battles, preseason reps, and roster moves will continue to shape the landscape. But this schedule? It’s locked in.
And it does not care who is calling the plays.
I’m hopeful Rudolph is working hard to prepare. He has the tools, the experience, and now the platform. But the 2025 schedule is a test of truth. Mason Rudolph must rise—or risk being written off for good.