The Pittsburgh Steelers have made their decision on who the team's backup quarterback will be in 2019. According to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN, Mason Rudolph has won the backup quarterback job behind Ben Roethlisberger.
After a strong preseason, Mason Rudolph won the Steelers' No. 2 quarterback job and will back up Ben Roethlisberger this season barring unforeseen development, per sources.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) August 30, 2019
The Steelers drafted Rudolph in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft out of Oklahoma State. He failed to be in uniform for any of the Steelers games in 2018.
Entering his second season with the team, Rudolph was expected to be given a shot to win the backup quarterback spot. Over the course of this preseason, the second-year quarterback was in a healthy competition with Joshua Dobbs for the backup role.
Pittsburgh selected Dobbs in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Since then, Dobbs has been inconsistent with his play on the field in his limited opportunities.
This preseason, Rudolph has flashed his potential under center with 368 yards, four touchdowns, and one interception in four games. Comparatively, Dobbs struggled with just 280 yards, no touchdowns, and two interceptions. Unlike Rudolph, though, Dobbs can make plays with his legs, rushing for 65 yards this preseason.
The decision was clear-cut after watching both quarterbacks in the preseason. Rudolph clearly outplayed Dobbs and is easily the team's best option to be the No. 2 quarterback on the depth chart.
Earlier this offseason, Pittsburgh signed Roethlisberger to a two-year extension, keeping him with the team through the 2021 season. With that being said, the Steelers may be planning on developing Rudolph under Roethlisberger's wing to become their future starter.
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