Former Steelers QB Mason Rudolph Sends A Heartwarming Goodbye Message To The Pittsburgh Community

The Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback room has undergone a significant transformation since the 2023 season. Mason Rudolph, once the third-string quarterback, emerged as a crucial figure during that time. When the team needed him most, he delivered stellar offensive performances, rejuvenating the Steelers' hopes for success. With his contributions, they ascended from having minimal playoff prospects to securing a playoff berth.

However, Rudolph's journey in Pittsburgh took an unexpected turn in the offseason. Despite spending his entire career with the Steelers, it was time for both parties to part ways. Rudolph secured a new contract with the Tennessee Titans, valued at $3.6 million, with $2.7 million guaranteed. His deal includes a $1.35 million signing bonus and a base salary of $1.35 million. Additionally, he stands to earn $10,000 per game as an active roster bonus and a $750,000 playtime incentive.

On Wednesday, Rudolph bid farewell to Pittsburgh through a heartfelt message on his Instagram platform. In the post, he expressed gratitude to his fans, teammates, coaches, and the entire Pittsburgh community.

“For the past 6 years, it has been a privilege to be part of the Pittsburgh community and represent the Pittsburgh Steelers. To my teammates, coaches, staff, Art Rooney, the Rooney family, Thomas Tull, Larry Paul, and the rest of the Steelers organization: Thank you for changing my life forever six years ago when you gave me the opportunity to wear the Black & Gold. To the fans—your love and passion for the team is what makes it so special to play here. I will never forget playing in front of Yinz one final time this past December. All the Best. MR.”

Rudolph's NFL journey takes him to the Titans, where he'll vie for the starting role. It's the same team that aided the Steelers and Rudolph in their playoff push. In a crucial game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Titans' victory sealed the Steelers' playoff berth, granting Rudolph a postseason start.

Though the Steelers fell short against the Buffalo Bills, Rudolph's performance improved as the game progressed. While not his finest outing, he rallied the team, providing a glimmer of hope, despite an early deficit. The Steelers didn't compete much against the Bills, but with Rudolph, they stuck around and fought. 

In Tennessee, Rudolph enters with aspirations of securing the starting position, though the odds are against him. The Titans showed promise in young quarterback Will Levis last season, indicating he's likely to lead the team, with Rudolph serving as his backup.

Former Steelers QB Mason Rudolph's Career Review

Rudolph's journey in Pittsburgh began in the 2018 NFL Draft, where he was selected in the third round (76th overall). The Steelers saw potential in him as a successor to the aging Ben Roethlisberger. However, Rudolph's introduction to Pittsburgh was challenging.

Rumors circulated about Roethlisberger's dissatisfaction with the team drafting his potential replacement in the third round. Some suggested a strained relationship between Roethlisberger and Rudolph. Yet, Roethlisberger offered a contrasting perspective.

Early in his NFL career, Rudolph faced controversy when Cleveland Browns' Myles Garrett accused him of using a slur, an allegation never substantiated. The incident culminated in Garrett ripping off Rudolph's helmet and swinging it at him, adding to Rudolph's early struggles in the league.

In addition to the challenges Rudolph faced, the Steelers' lack of belief in him became apparent. Despite his efforts, they opted to sign Mitch Trubisky, a move that overshadowed Rudolph's potential role. Moreover, the Steelers turned to Kenny Pickett, further sidelining Rudolph.

Yet, amidst these setbacks, Rudolph maintained a positive attitude, consistently uplifting the team during critical moments in the 2023 season. His resilience and commitment endeared him to Steeler Nation, creating a lasting bond between Rudolph and the fan base.

As Rudolph bids farewell to Pittsburgh with a heartfelt message, the city's football faithful wish him nothing but success with the Titans. However, there's a caveat – Steelers fans hope for his triumph, just not at the expense of their beloved team.