The thrill of victory, the agony of defeat, and the never-ending speculation of the offseason. That’s right, football fans, the Steelers are back in the news, and this time, it’s all about the most crucial position on the field: quarterback.
While the echoes of Ben Roethlisberger’s legendary career still resonate through the halls of Acrisure Stadium, the Steelers find themselves at a familiar crossroads. Who will lead the black and gold into the future?
The Case for Mason Rudolph
Ben Roethlisberger himself weighed in on the matter during his “Footbahlin'” podcast. “I think Mason did a great job coming in the last few games,” Roethlisberger remarked, praising Rudolph’s performance after Kenny Pickett’s injury. “He earned himself a chance to compete either here or get paid somewhere else.”
Rudolph’s grit and determination are undeniable. He’s weathered the storms of backup duty and stepped up when called upon. Could he be the unexpected hero Pittsburgh needs?
ESPN’s Intriguing (and Perhaps Unrealistic) Options
ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky sees things a bit differently. He suggests the Steelers make a splash by pursuing a big-name quarterback, suggesting Justin Fields, Baker Mayfield, or even Kirk Cousins as potential candidates.
While the idea of a Pro Bowl-caliber quarterback taking snaps for the Steelers is enticing, the reality is much more complex. The Bears would demand a king’s ransom for Fields, and Cousins’ hefty contract could hamstring the Steelers’ salary cap. Mayfield, perhaps the most attainable of the three, may prefer the comfort of NFC South familiarity over the gauntlet of the AFC North.
“I don’t think Baker Mayfield is going to leave them, considering they’re in the Divisional Round playoffs,” Orlovsky admitted on NFL Live. But, as any seasoned football fan knows, anything is possible in the offseason.
The Draft: A Familiar Path?
If the Steelers opt against retaining Rudolph and balk at the cost of a veteran, the NFL Draft presents a familiar path. Pittsburgh has a history of unearthing hidden gems in the draft, and this year’s crop of quarterbacks could offer a long-term solution.
A City Holds Its Breath
The quarterback carousel is spinning, and Steelers Nation waits with bated breath. Will Pittsburgh take a gamble on a proven veteran, place their faith in Rudolph’s potential, or pin their hopes on a fresh face from the draft? One thing’s for sure, the 2024 season can’t come soon enough.
What do you think, Steelers fans? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let the debate rage on!