The Pittsburgh Steelers have been at the center of offseason discussions, largely due to a large void in their roster, a clear starting quarterback. In a league where the quarterback position is vital to a team’s success, the uncertainty has become a hot topic. As things currently stand, Mason Rudolph would likely be the Steelers' starting quarterback if the season kicked off today. Despite this, people are all offering their takes on who the team should turn to in order to solidify this crucial role and lead the franchise in the right direction.
Sebastian Foltz / Post-Gazette
Steelers' Mason Rudolph hypes up the crowd in a home game in Pittsburgh.
One of the voices weighing in on the Steelers' quarterback situation is Ray Fittipaldo, a Steelers insider for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. During a recent appearance on 93.7 The Fan, Fittipaldo was asked about some doubt surrounding the team’s chances of maintaining their famous non-losing season streak under Head Coach Mike Tomlin. According to Fittipaldo, if Rudolph ends up as the Steelers’ starting quarterback for the season, that impressive streak may finally come to an end.
"I think there's a good possibility of that," Fittipaldo shared.
Tomlin, the longest tenured head coach in the big four American professional sports, has built a remarkable legacy since taking over the team in 2007. One of the most impressive parts of his time is his streak of non-losing seasons -- he has never finished a season below .500. This level of consistency is rare in the NFL and speaks to Tomlin’s ability to adapt, motivate, and lead regardless of the challenges his team faces. His non-losing season streak has become a point of pride for the franchise and its fan base.
Tomlin however, has recently faced criticism regarding the ongoing situation with Aaron Rodgers, along with his lack of playoff wins since the 2016 season -- despite the consistent winning records. It's widely known that the Steelers are considered frontrunners to sign the veteran free agent quarterback, and he's expected to possibly help the organization get out of their postseason rut. Reports suggest the team has already extended an offer to Rodgers and is now waiting on his decision. Despite this, it has felt like an eternity since the initial rumors began to surface, and the prolonged silence has left many fans feeling frustrated and impatient with the lack of clarity surrounding the team's quarterback plans.
Aubrey Lao / Getty Images
Four-time league MVP Aaron Rodgers throwing the football during the 2025 offseason.
The criticism directed at both Tomlin and the Steelers' front office largely stems from the perception that Rodgers is the one calling the shots. Some fans feel that the organization has given him too much control over the situation. While the team continues to present a calm and confident front, the absence of a definitive answer has left many questioning whether the Steelers are mishandling the process. This ongoing uncertainty has only added to the frustration, as the team’s quarterback future remains unclear.
When Rudolph was re-signed by the Steelers this offseason following his brief time with the Tennessee Titans, it initially appeared that his role would be that of a backup quarterback. However, as time passes and there is still no official decision from Rodgers, Rudolph’s role on the roster is taking on greater significance. With the uncertainty surrounding the starting quarterback position, Rudolph is steadily emerging as an important part of the Steelers’ plans, at least for the time being.
There have been numerous rumored deadlines for Rodgers to make a decision, all of which have come and gone without any official word. As a result, the likelihood of Rudolph starting for the Steelers continues to grow. Still, with offseason programs set to begin soon, there's ample time for Rodgers to make his choice. If he does decide to join the team, he would still have plenty of time to familiarize himself with the playbook, connect with his new teammates, and start building crucial chemistry before the season kicks off.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter / X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph (#2) makes a throw during 2022 training camp at St. Vincent College in Latrobe, PA.
Steelers' Schedule Matches A Revenge Tour For Rodgers
The official schedule for the 2025 NFL season was recently released, and many fans and analysts have pointed out how favorably it aligns for Rodgers. The Steelers are set to face both of Rodgers' former teams, as well as opponents where he has a big rivalry, which could add extra motivation and possibly make the opportunity to sign with Pittsburgh even more appealing to him. While reports suggest that things are looking promising for a potential deal with Rodgers, it's important for the Steelers to keep evaluating their other options, most importantly Rudolph, if Rodgers chooses not to sign.
#SteelerNation
