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As the Pittsburgh Steelers face ongoing uncertainty at quarterback heading into the 2025 NFL season, a high-profile voice outside the franchise has weighed in.
U.S. President Donald Trump used a rally in Pennsylvania to express his strong for Mason Rudolph, suggesting the longtime backup could take over as the team's starter.
Speaking at the U.S. Steel facility in West Mifflin on Friday night, Trump addressed a crowd that included Steelers safety Miles Killebrew, using the occasion to endorse Rudolph in surprising fashion.
"I happen to think a really good quarterback is a man named Mason Rudolph - and I think he's going to get a big shot," Trump said. "He's tall, he's handsome, got a great arm, and I have a feeling he's gonna be the guy."
Rodgers links persist as Steelers weigh options
Among the candidates rumored to be in the mix is Aaron Rodgers, the four-time NFL MVP who is expected to return to action after missing nearly all of the 2024 season with a torn Achilles.
Yet not everyone is eager to see Rodgers in Pittsburgh. Steelers legend Terry Bradshaw voiced sharp criticism of the idea during an interview with 103.7 The Buzz, dismissing the notion as out of touch with the team's long-term goals.
"That's a joke. That is, just to me, a joke," Bradshaw said. "What are you going to do? Bring him in for one year, are you kidding me? That guy needs to stay in California. Go somewhere and chew on bark and whisper to the gods out there."
Despite the noise, Mason Rudolph remains focused. After re-g with the team this offseason, Rudolph has maintained a professional approach as he competes for the starting job. When asked directly about the Rodgers rumors and public commentary, he offered a measured response.
"Well, that's nothing new to me. There's been constant noise. That is the nature of the NFL," Rudolph said. "So I've been used to that for a long time now. I do nothing but be the best I can be and help our team get better this spring."
The 28-year-old closed out the 2024 season with a string of strong performances, helping Pittsburgh reach the playoffs and reviving his career after several years as a backup. Whether those efforts will be enough to secure the starting role in 2025 remains to be seen.
Still, with the unexpected endorsement from a former president and from inside the locker room, Rudolph is emerging as a serious contender in Pittsburgh's quarterback conversation - regardless of whether Rodgers ever enters the frame.