Aaron Rodgers to the Steelers? Mason Rudolph Isn’t Flinching Amid QB Shake-Up
<strong>Rodgers Watch Begins in Pittsburgh</strong>
The Pittsburgh Steelers are playing the long game, and all eyes are on Aaron Rodgers. While Rodgers hasn’t officially signed, his visit to the team facility and ongoing quarterback shuffle suggest Mike Tomlin is preparing for a potential blockbuster move. The team is holding off on key decisions—like wide receiver signings—until they know if the four-time MVP is donning black and gold.
“Financial compensation will tell you what’s going to go down in terms of the depth chart”
Mark Kaboly / Steelers Correspondent
For The @PatMcAfeeShowPITTSBURGH — Mason Rudolph has heard as much about Aaron Rodgers and his future with the Steelers as anybody else – very little… pic.twitter.com/gZArInydF2
— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly) May 19, 2025
<strong>Mason Rudolph Keeps His Cool</strong>
Amid the buzz, Mason Rudolph isn’t panicking. The veteran quarterback, who re-signed with the Steelers this March, has been here before—literally. Back in 2022, he lost his starting chance when the team brought in Mitch Trubisky and rookie Kenny Pickett. Now, with Rodgers looming, Rudolph is once again the odd man out. But he’s unfazed. “This business hardens you,” he told Mark Kaboly. “All I can do is keep having a good spring… and make the most of every rep.”
<strong>Steelers’ Crowded QB Room</strong>
Rudolph isn’t alone in the mix. Skylar Thompson signed in January, and rookie Will Howard was drafted to round out Mike Tomlin’s four-QB system. Still, Rudolph brings leadership and experience—and a stellar 2023 stretch that saw him lead the Steelers to three critical victories when called upon.
<strong>Rodgers’ Arrival Would Be a Game-Changer</strong>
Rodgers could command up to $10 million for a one-year stint—likely pushing Rudolph, Thompson, and Howard down the depth chart. Yet, Rudolph’s mindset remains pragmatic. He acknowledges the financial pecking order but sees an opportunity to learn from Rodgers and position himself for the future.
<strong>Steelers Betting on Short-Term Firepower</strong>
With Rodgers potentially on board for just one season, the Steelers are eyeing immediate success. But they’re also keeping an eye on the long game. If Rodgers retires after 2025—or doesn’t join at all—Rudolph might still be the best bet to take over. And if history is any guide, he’ll be ready.
<strong>Rudolph’s Redemption Arc Isn’t Over</strong>
His message is clear: he’s not just biding time. He’s building trust, staying ready, and proving he’s more than a backup. As Rudolph put it, “They know what I can do.” Whether Rodgers arrives or not, Mason Rudolph is still very much in the Steelers’ quarterback conversation.