The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a franchise-changing move by acquiring the services of Russell Wilson, leaving quarterback Mason Rudolph‘s future with the team clouded in uncertainty. As the Steelers embrace a new era under Wilson’s leadership, Rudolph finds himself in a crucial position – looking elsewhere for a fresh start to revive his NFL career
Rudolph’s name has gained traction in recent weeks, with speculation swirling around potential options. As the offseason progresses, keeping tabs on his next landing spot will be a captivating storyline, offering insight into how his talents could elevate a quarterback room in need of stability.
Possible team options for Mason Rudolph
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With Russell Wilson officially joining the Steelers, Rudolph’s days in Pittsburgh appear numbered. “Mason Rudolph’s people met with the Steelers today and we know how that went. Never say never but something crazy would have to happen for Rudolph to return to the Steelers,” tweeted Mark Kaboly, Senior Steelers Writer.
Mason Rudolph’s people met with the Steelers today and we know how that went. Never say never but something crazy would have to happen for Rudolph to return to the Steelers.
— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly) March 11, 2024
Amidst the discussion with the Steelers though, eyes remain on other options that seem to be open for the QB. Here are some possible landing spots for Mason Rudolph:
Minnesota Vikings
One of the most logical destinations for Rudolph is the Minnesota Vikings if Kirk Cousins exits from the side. Rudolph could start over Nick Mullens and Jaren Hall while having talented weapons like Justin Jefferson. With just $9.6 million in projected cap space, if someone is going to enjoy the idea of signing Rudolph to an inexpensive contract, it could be the Minnesota team.
The #Vikings and Kirk Cousins remain in communication, but it appears the four-time Pro Bowl QB will test the free-agent market, which opens at noon ET on Monday. @NFLTotalAccess @nflnetwork pic.twitter.com/qwGM49Cier
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 10, 2024
New England Patriots
Another fit for the QB possibly is New England as they still have to sort things out with the current QBs. That’s where Rudolph comes in, serving as a high-level backup who could start if New England wanted to take things slow with a rookie signal-caller. His entry into the side could bring the rightly required experience and his rushing stats would be a benefit for the Patriots who struggled in the department the past season.
Pittsburgh Steelers
While unlikely, it would make sense for the Steelers to keep Rudolph in the side. He’s been the backup for a while and performed well when he got his chance. Rudolph’s stats were good—he had an 18.0 passer rating and has modest numbers to display in passing yards as well. He also did a better job of throwing the ball deep compared to Pickett, and he won all three games at the end of the regular season.
Rudolph’s future is now clouded after his impressive playoff-clinching run. His potential will draw interest from quarterback-needing teams as he seeks a fresh start after Wilson begins his Steelers era.
Russell Wilson heads to the Steel City!
The long-awaited resolution to the Russell Wilson case is complete, with the former Broncos star signing a one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers. This move could mark the beginning of another successful chapter for a Steelers franchise looking to shake up on following an early playoff exit
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Year 13. Grateful. @Steelers pic.twitter.com/0U4Q2sRtXs
— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) March 11, 2024
Wilson, a nine-time pro bowler, expressed his appreciation on social media, posting “Year 13, Grateful. @Steelers” as he now joins the Steelers. For a team that struggled mightily on offense last season, Wilson’s arrival brings hope to an explosive offense.
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However, the signing comes with inherent risks for both sides. For Wilson, joining the Steelers on just a one-year, team-friendly deal worth slightly over $1 million is his chance to prove he can still perform at an elite level after two dismal seasons in Denver. The Steelers, meanwhile, are banking on Wilson returning to his Super Bowl-winning form to elevate a roster that narrowly squeaked into the playoffs.