5 greatest backup quarterbacks in Pittsburgh Steelers history

It's said there may be no better job in America than an NFL backup quarterback. Get paid, be prepared, and don't get hit. The Pittsburgh Steelers certainly have a history with the position. While both were known for their toughness, neither Terry Bradshaw nor Ben Roethlisberger were known for staying healthy. Both battled plenty of injuries, as did the starters that filled the gaps between the legendary passers.

Of course, it's never ideal when the backup has to step in. Steelers fans remember 2019 all too well as Roethlisberger injured his throwing elbow in Week 2 against the Seahawks and in stepped Mason Rudolph. The results were less than desirable. Fast forward to 2023, and Rudolph is the third-string quarterback in Pittsburgh.

Recent comments from a former Steelers offensive lineman, Jonathon Scott on the Select Few Podcast, raised eyebrows within the fanbase. Scott had harsh words for Roethlisberger, saying the team would have been better off with backup quarterback Charlie Batch as the number one signal caller on the depth chart in 2009.

"Ben got hurt, and Chuck came in. We went 4-0 without Roethlisberger. They had to put Ben in because he was Ben. I am thoroughly convinced if we would've stayed with Chuck, we would've won the Super Bowl. I'll say that. I can say that with confidence."

- Jonathon Scott on the Select Few Podcast

The validity of Scott's statement is up for debate. There's no doubt Batch is one of the best backup quarterbacks the Steelers have ever had on the sidelines. But where does he stand on a list of the best of the best in Pittsburgh history?