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The Pittsburgh Steelers are among the many teams to watch when it comes to the quarterback market ahead of Thursday's NFL draft. But recent developments suggest the team might not take a signal-caller until the later rounds.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported the Steelers are “closing in” on a one-year extension with backup quarterback Mason Rudolph. If it gets done, he will be signed through 2022.
Sources: The #Steelers are closing in on a 1-year extension with QB Mason Rudolph. Nothing done yet, but look for it soon for the Steelers’ backup. He’ll be signed through 2022.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 29, 2021
Why is this important? Well, it could have ramifications as far as Pittsburgh's draft plans are concerned.
The Steelers currently head into Thursday night's draft without a single quarterback signed through 2021. Nobody is displacing Ben Roethlisberger this fall, but the uncertainty suggested general manager Kevin Colbert could very well look to take a quarterback.
However, Rudolph's pending extension might give Pittsburgh some options. The Steelers will now have a fallback option signed through next season, meaning they don't necessarily have to reach on a quarterback prospect with the No. 24 pick. Now, this doesn't mean the Steelers will not draft a quarterback at all. But they could wait until Day 2, if not later.
Instead, Pittsburgh might be looking to upgrade in the backfield. Running back James Conner signed with the Arizona Cardinals in free agency. That opens up a spot on the depth chart.
There are multiple running backs who might hear their names called towards the end of the first round. Perhaps the Steelers draft Alabama running back Najee Harris, or opt for Clemson star Travis Etienne. Colbert could address the offensive line.
Regardless, Rudolph's extension would appear to create some flexibility.
