BREAKING NEWS: It Has Happened — Steelers QBs Skylar Thompson, Mason Rudolph Leave Coach Mike Tomlin With Major Announcement
In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves across the NFL landscape, Pittsburgh Steelers quarterbacks Skylar Thompson and Mason Rudolph have both informed the organization of their decisions to step away from the team. Head Coach Mike Tomlin confirmed the news in an emotional press conference this afternoon, stating the franchise has been left with a major announcement that will shape the team’s immediate future.
The bombshell comes just weeks before the start of mandatory mini-camp, leaving the Steelers’ quarterback depth chart in turmoil. Mason Rudolph, a longtime backup and occasional starter for Pittsburgh, was expected to compete for the starting job following recent offseason discussions. Skylar Thompson, a young quarterback acquired via trade earlier this year from the Miami Dolphins, was seen as a developmental prospect with strong upside.
According to multiple sources within the organization, both players made their decisions independently but informed Coach Tomlin at nearly the same time. “These young men have made personal decisions they feel are best for themselves and their families,” Tomlin said. “While this comes as a surprise, we respect their choices and support them wholeheartedly.”
Rudolph, drafted by the Steelers in 2018, has spent the majority of his career behind Ben Roethlisberger and more recently Kenny Pickett. Though he saw some success in spot starts, he never fully cemented himself as the franchise quarterback. Thompson, a seventh-round pick in the 2022 draft, showed flashes of promise during his time with Miami but struggled for consistency.
Reports suggest Rudolph is contemplating retirement or a potential transition into coaching. Meanwhile, Thompson’s representatives have not commented on whether he plans to continue playing elsewhere or if this marks a temporary break from football.
The Steelers now face a critical quarterback dilemma. With Pickett traded to Philadelphia earlier this offseason and both Rudolph and Thompson now gone, the only remaining quarterback on the roster is undrafted rookie Malik Cunningham. Coach Tomlin acknowledged the urgency of the situation.
“We’re actively exploring all our options — through free agency, trades, and the upcoming mini-camps,” Tomlin said. “Our focus is on building a competitive team. This changes our timeline, but not our mission.”
Speculation has already begun about potential veteran signings, including rumors linking the Steelers to free agents such as Ryan Tannehill and Carson Wentz. With training camp just weeks away, the team will need to act fast.
One thing is certain: this marks a pivotal turning point for the Pittsburgh Steelers — and Coach Tomlin’s leadership will be more vital than ever.
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