The Pittsburgh Steelers‘ top priority this offseason is determining their starting quarterback for the 2025 NFL season. To achieve this, head coach Mike Tomlin‘s team is negotiating with two free agents: Aaron Rodgers and last season’s starter, Russell Wilson. Meanwhile, another QB has joined the black & gold franchise.
A few hours ago, news broke that the Steelers took a crucial step toward signing Rodgers by sending him an offer. The 41-year-old veteran, former Super Bowl champion, now has the decision in his hands but is taking his time to evaluate his options.
On the other hand, Wilson would be a backup plan if Rodgers and Pittsburgh fail to reach an agreement. However, the former Seattle Seahawks quarterback is in talks with the New York Giants and Cleveland Browns as potential destinations for his future in the league. In this scenario, Tomlin secured the signing of a player he already knows.
Quarterback to join Tomlin’s Steelers
The Steelers‘ new quarterback for the upcoming season is none other than Mason Rudolph, who returns to Pittsburgh on a two-year, $8 million deal, according to NFL insider Dianna Russini. Rudolph arrives from the Tennessee Titans and is expected to serve as a backup for either Wilson or Rodgers, depending on how negotiations unfold.
Rudolph has played for the Steelers before, having been selected in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft (76th overall). During his first six-season stint with the black & gold, the 29-year-old quarterback appeared in 21 games, completing 63.5% of his passes for 3,085 yards, 19 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, with a passer rating of 86.9. In 2024, he had an unremarkable stint in Tennessee, and now he will once again be part of Tomlin’s roster.
Steelers sign former Aaron Rodgers’ Jets teammate
Coincidence or not, Pittsburgh made a move that could bring them closer to Rodgers. This involves signing cornerback Brandin Echols, who played alongside A-Rod with the New York Jets. Echols had joined The Green & White after being selected in the 2021 draft and spent two seasons as Rodgers’ teammate.