The Pittsburgh Steelers are geared up for a crucial Week 12 clash against the Chicago Bears on Sunday (November 23). With star quarterback Aaron Rodgers sidelined by a fractured left wrist suffered last week, backup Mason Rudolph will step into the spotlight for his first start of the season.
As the AFC North leaders aim to snag a second straight victory and fend off the Baltimore Ravens, all eyes will be on Rudolph to deliver.
Mason Rudolph’s clutch performance in NFL Week 11
Mason Rudolph didn’t waste time proving his worth in Week 11. Entering the third quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals with Aaron Rodgers nursing the injury, he sparked the offense to life. Rudolph orchestrated two consecutive scoring drives, one capped by a field goal and the next sealing the win with a touchdown.
Mason Rudolph’s career stats
Now in his seventh NFL season, Mason Rudolph brings a solid track record to the huddle. Drafted by the Steelers in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft out of Oklahoma State, he has spent most of his career in Pittsburgh, six seasons total, including a brief detour to the Tennessee Titans last year.
Completion rate: 451-of-704 (64.1%)
Passing yards: 4,754
Touchdowns: 29
Interceptions: 20
Passer rating: 85.5
Rushing: 72 carries for 202 yards and 1 touchdown (2.8 yards per carry)
Contract details
Mason Rudolph has been locked in stability with a two-year, $7.5 million contract signed in March, boasting an average annual value of $3.75 million. This deal marks his return to the Pittsburgh Steelers after a one-year Titans stint, where he saw limited action.
Pittsburgh Steelers QB depth
With Aaron Rodgers out, the depth chart shakes up.
Starter: Mason Rudolph
Backup: Will Howard (sixth-round 2025 draft pick, active for the first time)
Injured: Aaron Rodgers (wrist fracture)
From Oklahoma State to the Pros: Rudolph’s roots
Before the NFL grind, Rudolph shone at Oklahoma State University from 2014 to 2017. Taking the reins as starter for his final three years, he racked up 13,618 passing yards, 92 touchdowns, and just 26 picks.