Last year the Pittsburgh Steelers entered the season with Kenny Pickett as the unquestioned starting quarterback. Yet, by the time the playoffs arrived, it was Mason Rudolph starting for the Steelers, with a healthy Pickett playing the role of backup QB.
Related: See where Kenny Pickett lands in Sportsnaut’s NFL QB Rankings
Now Rudolph is set for free agency, leaving the Steelers’ 2022 first-round selection in position to reclaim the starting role, but Mike Tomlin has already indicated the former 20th overall pick will face competition.
According to one Pittsburgh insider, the Steelers’ organization is split on what to do at QB this offseason.
Pittsburgh Steelers divided over Mason Rudolph, Kenny Pickett
Longtime Pittsburgh Steelers reporter Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s latest report suggests the organization’s power structure isn’t on the same page in regard to the team’s starting quarterback.
“There appears to be some internal division that maybe Mason Rudolph should be the starter after the way he finished the 2023 season, winning the final three regular season games to gain entry to the playoffs.”
Pittsburgh Steelers insider Gerry Dulac
Kenny Pickett will turn 26 before the 2024 season kicks off. He’s started 24 games in his first two seasons, leading the Steelers to a 7-5 record each year. As of now, he’s in position to head into his third season as the unquestioned starter, but as mentioned, the Steelers want competition.
The Steelers want to retain Mason Rudolph, who reportedly isn’t opposed to a return to Pittsburgh, but anything could happen once free agency begins on March 11.
