Steelers Exploring a Reunion with Mason Rudolph for Backup Quarterback Role

Pittsburgh, March 12, 2025 – The Pittsburgh Steelers are weighing their options at quarterback as free agency kicks off, and a familiar name has surfaced in their discussions: Mason Rudolph. According to sources close to the team, the Steelers have internally debated bringing back the 29-year-old signal-caller, this time in a backup role, as they look to solidify depth behind their yet-to-be-determined starter for the 2025 season.

Rudolph, a third-round pick by Pittsburgh in the 2018 NFL Draft, spent six seasons with the Steelers before departing for the Tennessee Titans on a one-year deal in 2024. During his Titans stint, he threw for 1,530 yards, nine touchdowns, and nine interceptions across eight appearances, including five starts. His most memorable chapter in Pittsburgh came late in 2023, when he sparked a three-game win streak to secure a playoff berth, completing 74.3% of his passes for 719 yards and three scores without a turnover. Now a free agent, Rudolph’s name is back in the mix as the Steelers navigate a crowded quarterback landscape.

The discussions come amid uncertainty at the position for Pittsburgh. Justin Fields, who wore Rudolph’s old No. 2 jersey in 2024, remains unsigned and is drawing interest from teams like the Atlanta Falcons and Las Vegas Raiders as free agency officially opens today. Meanwhile, the Steelers’ pursuit of bigger names—like a potential trade for Chicago Bears QB Justin Fields or a blockbuster deal for a veteran—has yet to materialize. With limited options and a need for reliability, Rudolph’s familiarity with the organization makes him an intriguing fallback plan.

Sources indicate the Steelers see Rudolph as a cost-effective backup, potentially on a one-year deal in the $4-6 million range, rather than a contender for the starting job. His prior experience in Mike Tomlin’s system and his ability to step in during a pinch—demonstrated by that 2023 late-season surge—could provide stability behind a new QB1, whether that’s a re-signed Fields, a draft pick, or another free-agent acquisition.

Fan reaction on X has been predictably polarized. Some see Rudolph’s potential return as a smart, low-risk move: “Mason as a backup? I’d take that over some unproven rookie,” one user posted. Others remain skeptical, with a fan quipping, “Rudolph back? Guess we’re just recycling QBs now—where’s Landry Jones at?” The sentiment echoes a broader frustration among Steelers Nation, still hungry for a long-term answer under center.

No deal is imminent, and talks remain preliminary as Pittsburgh evaluates its full slate of options. The team’s recent signings of running back Kenneth Gainwell and linebacker Malik Harrison suggest GM Omar Khan is prioritizing depth across the roster, and a Rudolph reunion could fit that strategy. For now, the #Steelers faithful wait to see if the backup plan becomes reality—or if bigger moves are still in store.