3 quarterbacks Steelers can bench Ben Roethlisberger for right now
By Mark Powell
Steelers could back Mason Rudolph for rest of season
This one is tough to back for Steelers supporters who feel as though they’ve seen enough of Rudolph already to count him out as a potential Roethlisberger replacement. This, however, is not the same conversation.
I am not suggesting the Steelers tab Rudolph as the successor to a Hall of Famer. If anything, Roethlisberger has proven he’s anything but his usual self. Rudolph’s career QBR in just a shade over 80. That is exceptionally average, and though Rudolph doesn’t offer much more than Roethlisberger in most regards, he is a little more mobile, which can add another wrinkle to the offense.
The Steelers’ entire offense with an aging Roethlisberger is built around quick-hitting strikes. Since Week 12 of the 2020 season, opposing defenses have understood this, and planned accordingly, stacking the box and playing press coverage. Roethlisberger lacks the consistent arm strength post-elbow injury to make the throws necessary to open up the offense.
This is an era Rudolph may thrive jusssttt a bit more consistently, and it’s something the Steelers desperately need.