TRENDING: Steelers DL Cameron Heyward says he would be fine with Mason Rudolph being the team’s starter in 2025 and is happy to have him back, via Not Just Football.
“Mason’s a good dude. I think Mason proved to a lot of Steelers fans, not just this past year, but last year when he stepped in for us, that he was ready. You know, if we don’t sign a quarterback, and we go in the year with Mason, I think we feel good about it. Excited to have him back. He’s really a guy for the locker room, and a lot of guys vibe with him. So to bring him back, part of the group is special.”The Pittsburgh Steelers’ offseason has been filled with speculation about their quarterback situation, but veteran defensive lineman Cameron Heyward recently made his stance clear: he would be perfectly fine with Mason Rudolph as the team’s starting quarterback in 2025. In an interview on Not Just Football, Heyward expressed confidence in Rudolph’s ability to lead the Steelers, citing his past performances and positive presence in the locker room.
Mason Rudolph’s Journey with the Steelers
Rudolph has had a rollercoaster career in Pittsburgh since being drafted in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Initially seen as a potential successor to Ben Roethlisberger, he has spent most of his time as a backup, stepping in sporadically when needed. While his tenure has been marked by moments of inconsistency, Rudolph has also demonstrated resilience and growth, particularly in the past two seasons.
During the 2023 season, Rudolph made a compelling case for himself when he took over the starting role late in the year. He helped the Steelers secure a playoff spot, displaying poise and efficiency. His ability to manage the offense and limit mistakes made an impression on both fans and teammates. Heyward, one of the team’s most respected veterans, pointed out that Rudolph’s contributions went beyond the stat sheet, emphasizing his impact in the locker room and his rapport with the team.
Cameron Heyward’s Endorsement
Heyward’s endorsement of Rudolph is significant. As a leader of the Steelers’ defense and a key figure in the franchise, his opinion carries weight. His comments suggest that the Steelers’ locker room believes in Rudolph’s abilities and leadership.
“Mason’s a good dude,” Heyward said. “I think Mason proved to a lot of Steelers fans, not just this past year, but last year when he stepped in for us, that he was ready.”
These words highlight the trust and confidence that the team has in Rudolph. Heyward’s perspective also hints at an important factor: continuity. If the Steelers opt not to pursue a quarterback in free agency or the draft, having a familiar face under center could provide stability heading into the 2025 season.
The Steelers’ Quarterback Options
While Heyward’s comments suggest that the team could be comfortable with Rudolph, the Steelers still have other options to consider. Pittsburgh has been linked to potential moves for quarterbacks in both the draft and free agency. With a strong defense and a talented roster, the organization may feel pressure to bring in a more proven signal-caller to maximize their competitive window.
However, if the Steelers choose to roll with Rudolph, it wouldn’t be without merit. He has shown flashes of solid quarterback play, and with more experience and a full offseason as the presumed starter, he could take another step forward. Given the uncertainty surrounding other options, Rudolph’s familiarity with the team’s system and personnel could be an advantage.
Rudolph’s Fit with the Team
One of the most critical aspects of a quarterback’s success is his ability to mesh with his teammates and command the locker room. Heyward’s comments indicate that Rudolph has already established himself as a respected presence within the team. “He’s really a guy for the locker room, and a lot of guys vibe with him,” Heyward added. “So to bring him back, part of the group is special.”
This type of endorsement suggests that Rudolph is not only accepted but also valued by his teammates. In the NFL, where team chemistry can be just as crucial as raw talent, this could work in his favor.
Conclusion
Cameron Heyward’s support for Mason Rudolph as a potential starter in 2025 is a strong indication that the Steelers’ locker room has faith in him. While Pittsburgh’s front office may still explore other quarterback options, Heyward’s comments highlight the confidence that players have in Rudolph’s abilities and leadership. If the Steelers ultimately decide to enter the 2025 season with Rudolph at the helm, they do so with the assurance that their veteran leaders believe in him. Whether he proves to be the long-term answer remains to be seen, but for now, he has earned the trust of his teammates, which is a crucial first step.
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