By Sunday 
Mason Rudolph can’t seem to catch a break.
After a brief flicker of hope at the tail end of the 2023 season, Pro Football Focus (PFF) just handed the Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback a tough pill to swallow. In its latest ranking of NFL starters, PFF placed Rudolph at No. 31 out of 32—dead last among veterans. The only quarterback below him? Rookie Tyler Shough of the Saints.
“Firmly Established as a Career Backup”
Ouch.
That’s the word from John Kosko of PFF, who didn’t sugarcoat things. “After spending his first six seasons in Pittsburgh, Mason Rudolph spent a year in Tennessee before returning on a two-year deal with the Steelers,” Kosko wrote. “With just 850 career dropbacks and only 22 big-time throws to his name, Rudolph is firmly established as a career backup.”
PFF’s criticism wasn’t just about numbers—it’s about trajectory. Rudolph’s inconsistency, lack of elite-level throws, and limited overall experience have led analysts to conclude he’s simply not starter material. The Steelers seem to agree on some level, having drafted Will Howard in the sixth round this year. It’s not hard to read between the lines: the clock is ticking on Rudolph’s starting gig.
A Glimmer in 2023, Then a Slide
Steelers fans will remember when Rudolph reignited some playoff hope in late 2023. With Pittsburgh sitting at 7-7, he helped lead a three-game win streak to push the team into the postseason. That run gave some fans reason to believe he might finally be turning a corner.
But 2024 told a different story. Rudolph went 1-4 in his starts, threw nine touchdowns against nine interceptions, and managed just over 1,500 passing yards. That momentum from the prior season fizzled fast.
Waiting on Rodgers?
Now, things are in limbo. Rumors continue to swirl about a potential Aaron Rodgers move to Pittsburgh. If that happens, Rudolph’s spot on the depth chart could drop even further. For now, Rodgers hasn’t committed to anything, citing personal matters.
If Pittsburgh does bring in a veteran like Rodgers—or even turns to rookie Will Howard—it could mark the end of Rudolph’s run as a starter once again.
No Regrets from Rudolph
Despite it all, Rudolph remains a pro. He’s been around long enough to understand the NFL is as much about business as it is about performance. He’s bounced back from the brink before. And while PFF might see him as a backup, Rudolph seems to be taking it all in stride. No regrets. No complaints.
Still, in a league where the spotlight is unforgiving, and second chances are rare, Rudolph’s next move could be his most important yet.