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Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph was cleared by an independent neurological consultant to return to football activities following the team's bye week, announced Burt Lauten, Steelers Director of Communications. Rudolph is officially no longer in concussion protocol.
Rudolph sustained a concussion against the Baltimore Ravens during the Steelers' Week 5 home overtime loss. The second-year quarterback was seen lying motionless on the turf of Heinz Feild after Ravens safety Earl Thomas took a shot to his chin (after the pass) midway through the third quarter. Thomas was given a fine after the hit, which also spawned a penalty on the spot.
Devlin “Duck” Hodges started in place of Rudolph for Week 6's win over the Los Angeles Chargers. In doing so, he went 15-of-20 for 132 yards, one touchdown and an interception. Though the undrafted rookie got a win, coach Mike Tomlin made it clear on Wednesday who the starter is:
“Seriously guys, that guy is our quarterback when he clears the protocol, and it's as simple as that,” Tomlin said on Wednesday, via CBS Sports. “Appreciate the efforts of Duck and so forth, but as soon as [Rudolph] is ready to go, he's ready to go.”
Rudolph started the season as Ben Roethlisberger's backup. After Roethlisberger sustained a season-ending elbow injury, the former Oklahoma State Cowboy became the starter. For the season, Rudolph is 1-2 as a starter, compiling 646 yards, seven touchdowns and two interceptions on a 67% completion rate in the process. He will begin practice next week, as the Steelers are on a bye.
