The Pittsburgh Steelers have been actively making moves to strengthen their roster ahead of the 2025 season. On Thursday morning, they took a step toward solidifying their quarterback room by bringing back former Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph. While the team is still searching for its starting quarterback for the upcoming season, they also appear to be interested in adding a fullback.
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Former 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk gets rocked by a Chicago Bears defender during an NFL game.
One of the greatest fullbacks in the NFL over the past several seasons has been San Francisco 49ers veteran Kyle Juszczyk. A nine-time Pro Bowler, Juszczyk has been a key piece of the 49ers' offensive success for years. At 33 years old, he’s nearing the twilight of his career, but Pittsburgh seems interested in seeing if he has another season or two left in the tank.
On Thursday, NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that the Steelers are set to meet with Juszczyk to evaluate his potential fit in their offense and determine whether he could be a valuable addition to their roster for the 2025 season.
After being released by the 49ers, free-agent Pro-Bowl FB Kyle Juszczyk is meeting today with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 13, 2025
Juszczyk has played in 189 games over his 12-year NFL career, spending four seasons with the Baltimore Ravens and the last eight with the 49ers. Impressively, he has earned a Pro Bowl selection in each of the past nine seasons, a testament to his durability, versatility, and continued high-level play.
While primarily known for his blocking and ability to open up lanes in the running game, Juszczyk is also a reliable receiving threat who can contribute as a pass-catcher when called upon. When given the ball, Juszczyk has the ability to make plays and keep defenses on their toes.
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San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk is tackled by Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Devin White.
He’s highly respected for his all-around skill set as a fullback, excelling in every aspect of the position and executing at a high level. If the Steelers were to bring him in, it would add a fascinating new dimension to their offense. Earning nine consecutive Pro Bowl selections is a true testament to Juszczyk’s excellence and dominance at his position.
For starters, Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith has emphasized his vision of building a physical, ground-and-pound style of offense. Adding Juszczyk would be a major step toward achieving that goal, giving the Steelers a proven lead blocker who thrives in a smashmouth system. Pairing Juszczyk with massive tight end Darnell Washington and an improving young offensive line could be exactly what Pittsburgh needs to establish a dominant identity in the trenches.
With the Steelers still searching for answers at quarterback, reinforcing their rushing attack with a player like Juszczyk could take some pressure off whoever lines up under center. If Pittsburgh can successfully land the veteran fullback, their offense could take a significant leap forward in both physicality and efficiency in 2025.
Steelers' Offense Making Productive Moves, But Still Searching For Starting QB
Bringing back Rudolph gives the Steelers solid depth at quarterback, but he remains a backup in this league—a role he has firmly established over his career. While he’s had some exciting moments, he’s not the guy to carry this Steelers offense. However, the team made a blockbuster move by trading for star wide receiver DK Metcalf, creating a potentially electric duo alongside George Pickens.
Adding Juszczyk would be another under-the-radar move that could further elevate the offense, giving them a versatile fullback who fits perfectly into Smith’s physical system. However, the biggest missing piece remains a starting quarterback.
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Packers' Aaron Rodgers looks on during a game away from Green Bay.
All signs point to Aaron Rodgers as the primary target, with Pittsburgh seemingly waiting to see where he decides to play. Steelers fans will have to remain patient as Rodgers weighs his options, knowing that his decision could ultimately determine just how dangerous this offense can be in 2025.
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