Steelers QB Mason Rudolph issues big warning to Aaron Rodgers, Mike Tomlin ahead of 2025 NFL season

Aaron Rodgers has yet to make an official announcement regarding his NFL future, although all signs point to a potential move to the Pittsburgh Steelers being finalized soon. In light of this situation, Mason Rudolph is well aware that he could have a major competitor for the QB1 role, which is why he delivered a clear message to head coach Mike Tomlin and his teammates.

In a recent media appearance, Rudolph addressed the imminent arrival of Rodgers to the team, acknowledging that the two will likely compete for the starting job come Week 1. Despite that, the former Oklahoma State standout remains confident in his ability to take on the role.

“They know what I can do and what we were able to do there toward the end of 2023,” Rudolph said via Kaboly and Mack on YouTube. “They know I can play well when asked to, and my number is called.”

Coming off a recent stint with the Titans, he was fully aware of the possibility that the team would add a new quarterback to the roster — likely someone with experience and a strong reputation. Even so, he expressed confidence in his ability to deliver and prove himself to his head coach.

Mason Rudolph #2 of the Pittsburgh Steelers warms up prior to the game against the Baltimore Ravens at Heinz Field on October 6, 2019 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

“I assumed they were going to sign people and add to the roster because they always go to training camp with four quarterbacks,” Rudolph also added. “I knew that going in. I am going to respect the privacy of what (general manager) Omar (Khan) told me specifically. That’s for him to decide when, or whatever, they add a fourth.”

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Rudolph’s confidence ahead of what’s next

These are hectic days in Pittsburgh, as there’s still no resolution regarding the potential arrival of Rodgers to join Mike Tomlin’s roster. Still, understanding that this is ultimately a business, Rudolph knows he has to stay the course if he wants to see playing time again.

“Whoever they bring in and whoever it is will determine … I learned a long time ago that the financial compensation will tell you what’s going to go down in terms of the depth chart,” Rudolph said.

He finally concluded: “I get it. All I can do is keep having a good spring … and make the most of every rep. That’s what I’ve done my whole career. I am confident that I will be able to play well and win games when my name is called.”