Dwayne Haskins has perfect answer about Steelers backup QB job

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins is ready to secure the backup job, but he’ll have to go through Mason Rudolph first.

Haskins was signed fresh off getting cut by the Washington Football Team. The former first-round pick out of Ohio State wasn’t in proper football shape in D.C., and several off-field issues marred his tenure in the nation’s capital.

The Buckeye great was brought in as a flier, as the Steelers are looking for a solid starting option behind soon to be retired quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. Big Ben is entering what’s likely to be his last season in the Steel City.

In Haskins way for the backup spot is former third-round pick and Oklahoma State QB Mason Rudolph. The 26-year-old has had several starting opportunities in Roethlisberger’s absence, but failed to deliver consistently.

Steelers: Does Dwayne Haskins have a chance to secure the backup spot?

Haskins considers his tenure with the Steelers a try-out to be the face of the franchise moving forward, and Rudolph is in his way. There’s no animosity towards either party, as is usually the case in the quarterback room. Yet, only one player can secure the No. 2 slot behind Big Ben, with an inside track for the starting job next season.

Mark Kaboly of The Athletic stated that Haskins has been “surprisingly good” at training camp. Clearly he showed up to practice ready to make an impression.

Haskins evidently lit up the two-minute drill this week, giving the Steelers just a taste of what they may have to look forward to.

“I have always liked the two-minute drill since I was a little kid,” Haskins said. “You have the pressure put on you to make a play. Coach Tomlin wants to see how well I can compete and that’s a moment where I can showcase how I can lead other people.”

Rudolph was slated as the starter for the Hall-of-Fame Game to open the preseason, sending a message to Haskins that the job isn’t his just yet.