The Pittsburgh Steelers are at a pivotal crossroads in their quarterback situation, with rumors swirling about Aaron Rodgers potentially joining the team.
However, Steelers legend Ben Roethlisberger has made his stance clear, expressing skepticism about Rodgers as a short-term solution and raising doubts about Mason Rudolph’s readiness to step in as the team’s QB1.
Roet͏h͏lisberger Endorses Rudolph as a Viable Starter
The Pittsburgh Steelers remain in the hunt ͏for ͏a starting quarterback, with the organization considering both veteran and long-term options. As speculation swirls around͏ Aaron͏ Rodge͏rs potentially joining the team, former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has ͏made͏ his stance on Mason Rudolph clear.
Ben Roethlisberger on Mason Rudolph: "Mason can get the guys the ball. He can throw. Mason can throw the ball. Like, that's never been a question. He can get guys, he can make decisions, and get the ball out of his hand and he's not afraid to take shots down the field either. You…
— Steelers Depot 7⃣ (@Steelersdepot) April 1, 2025
Speaking on the subject, Roeth͏lisb͏erger expressed confidence in Ru͏do͏lph͏’s ability to lead the offense, emphasizing his ability to ͏make decisive throws͏. “M͏aso͏n can get the guys the ball͏. He can throw. ͏Mason͏ can throw the ball. Like, ͏that’s never been a ͏question. He can get guys, he can make decisions, and ͏get the ball out of his͏ hand and he’s not afraid to ͏take shots down the field either͏.”
This endorsement highlights Rudolph’s strengths, particularly his willingness to stand in the pocket and make plays rather than relying on quick, safe passes.
Roethlisberger also pointed out that Rudolph’s playing style complements the team’s receiving corps. With deep threats like George Pickens and DK Metcalf, a quarterback who can stretch the field is essential. If Rodgers decides against signing with Pittsburgh, Roethlisberger believes sticking with Rudolph could still offer a stable option under center.
“If you don’t end up getting Aaron [Rodgers], which is what I think you’d want if you want to make your offense a wider net offense and create more things. If you don’t end up getting him, I think you can stick with Mason and be happy with what you’re gonna get.”
Steeler͏s’ Long-Term QB Strategy Remains Unchanged
While the Steelers are open to the idea of Aaron Rodgers joining the team, reports indicate that his decision won’t alter their long-term strategy. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler noted that Pittsburgh is likely to draft a quarterback within the next two years, regardless of whether Rodgers plays for them in 2025.
Since Roethlisberger’s retirement after the 2021 season, the Steelers have cycled through seven different starting quarterbacks, struggling to find a true franchise leader at the position. Despite staying relevant in the playoff hunt under head coach Mike Tomlin, the team has yet to reestablish itself as a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
Rodgers recently met with Pittsburgh’s front office, signaling that a decision could be imminent. However, the Steelers appear committed to investing in a young quarterback through the draft, even if Rodgers joins as a short-term solution.
Ultimately, while Roethlisberger sees Rudolph as a capable option if Rodgers declines, Pittsburgh’s broader plan remains focused on securing a long-term franchise quarterback. The front office will have to balance its immediate needs with its future vision as the offseason unfolds.