Mason Rudolph, Pittsburgh Steelers. (Photo by Justin Pearl/Getty Images)
The Pittsburgh Steelers had a turbulent season, losing out to future Hall of Fame QB Ben Roethlisberger. It’s time to turn the page.
Pittsburgh opens its season on the road against the Cincinnati Bengals. The defending champion of Asia, the Bengals, will be a tough sell this year. But before the Steelers can even think about their season opener, there are some tough decisions ahead.
Without Roethlisberger, the Steelers signed Mitchell Trubisky and drafted Pitt producer Kenny Pickett in the first round. Mason Rudolph still is. A tough quarterback fight in training camp almost certainly leaves one player relegated to free agency, or perhaps to another roster entirely.
A slightly revamped offensive line will play a key role in determining the effectiveness of the Steelers’ offensive in Year Two under Matt Canada, while defense remains steadfast behind TJ Watt. Cam Heyward and Minka Fitzpatrick recently extended.
However, not all those currently on the list can attend this flight.
Steelers’ surprise cuts: QB Mason Rudolph
Once considered a potential protector of Rothlisberger, Rudolph did not stick to the bills. It was always an unfair comparison, as Rudolph was far from the best choice, and Big Ben did not take him under his care.
Roethlisberger was surprised that the Steelers would pick any midfielder, even Rudolph with the mid-round pick, while he was still on the roster. So, let’s just say the two didn’t necessarily get along, and Ben didn’t act as a mentor as the Steelers wanted.
In a limited business, Rudolph seemed like a solid backup at times, but that’s his limit. That’s why Pittsburgh signed with Trubisky and drafted Beckett. Which is why Rudolph was recently reduced to the third series despite playing strong pre-season – Mike Tomlin has seen this before.
Rudolph will be traded or released. If the market value isn’t high enough to get you some draft capital, expect the Steelers to lose it.
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