Mason Rudolph Proves Himself As Steelers QB of Future Despite Loss

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ 2019-20 season is off to a rocky start. After a loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Week Two, the team now sits at 0-2 for the first time since 2013. It’s possible to pin this loss on any number of factors as the running game was non-existent once again while the defense was unable to stop Russell Wilson and Seattle’s offense.

With that in mind, there is one incredibly bright takeaway from this game for Steelers fans everywhere. Mason Rudolph, the second-year quarterback that took over after Ben Roethlisberger left with an elbow injury, cemented himself as the team’s future at the position with his effort in Week Two.

Facing tough circumstances, Rudolph performed admirably. Against a Seattle defense that, while not as talented as they once were, still has some exceptional players, Rudolph put up two touchdowns and looked confident in the pocket. Yes, he threw an interception, but that was a result of Donte Moncrief’s poor hands, not Rudolph himself. The team may have lost, but their young quarterback did everything he could to give them a chance.

Coming out of Oklahoma State, Rudolph was viewed as a talented player that just needed time to develop after playing in a spread college system. As a matter of fact, the scouting report on Rudolph is reminiscent of Roethlisberger coming out of college. Matt Miller of Bleacher Report had this to say of Rudolph back in 2018,

"He’s a true pocket quarterback with the field vision and tools of a future pro starter. Rudolph moves well in the pocket for a non-athlete and can extend the play by stepping in and up from the rush."

In his first extended NFL action, Mason Rudolph was a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing Steelers effort. He showed a nice rapport with JuJu Smith-Schuster and he led the offense more effectively than Roethlisberger has so far this season. Pittsburgh is off to a nightmare start, but it’s clear their offensive future is in good hands.