Official: Pittsburgh Steelers’ 2025 Starting Lineup Announced, with Mason Rudolph Getting an Unexpected Start
PITTSBURGH – May 24, 2025 — The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially announced their starting lineup for the 2025 NFL season, and the biggest surprise comes under center. Veteran quarterback Mason Rudolph has been named the starting quarterback, edging out both 2022 first-round pick Kenny Pickett and newly signed free agent Marcus Mariota.
Rudolph, 29, has spent his entire career with the Steelers since being drafted in the third round in 2018. Often viewed as a backup or stopgap option, Rudolph has had a rollercoaster career, marked by flashes of solid play but also inconsistency and long stints on the bench. However, according to head coach Mike Tomlin, Rudolph earned the job during offseason workouts and spring practices.
“Mason came in with a chip on his shoulder,” Tomlin said in a press conference Friday. “He’s been the most consistent guy in the room. His command of the offense, his chemistry with the receivers, and his leadership stood out. This was not a decision based on past draft status or expectations—it was based on performance.”
Rudolph’s unexpected promotion has ignited debate among fans and analysts alike. Many expected Kenny Pickett, the 2022 Heisman finalist and University of Pittsburgh alum, to be the unquestioned starter going into his fourth season. After an up-and-down 2024 campaign plagued by injuries and inconsistency, Pickett will begin the season as the backup.
Tomlin emphasized that the competition was close but ultimately leaned on Rudolph’s steady hand and recent improvements. “This isn’t the end for Kenny or Marcus,” Tomlin added. “We’re going to need all three quarterbacks this season. But Mason gives us the best chance to win Week 1.”
Joining Rudolph on offense are several familiar names and a few new faces. Najee Harris returns as the feature back, looking to build off a bounce-back season in 2024 where he rushed for over 1,200 yards. George Pickens and Diontae Johnson will serve as the starting wideouts, with second-year tight end Darnell Washington expected to have a larger role following Pat Freiermuth’s departure in free agency.
On the offensive line, the Steelers continue to build continuity, with rookie tackle Jamal Sutherland earning the start at right tackle opposite veteran Dan Moore Jr. The interior is anchored by James Daniels, Isaac Seumalo, and promising center Zach Frazier, a second-round pick in 2024.
Defensively, Pittsburgh will continue to rely on their stalwart pass rush duo of T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith. Rookie linebacker Malik Brown, a first-round pick out of Georgia, has earned the starting inside linebacker role alongside Cole Holcomb. In the secondary, Minkah Fitzpatrick remains the centerpiece, while Joey Porter Jr. has locked down the CB1 position.
Newly acquired cornerback C.J. Henderson, who signed a one-year deal in the offseason, will start opposite Porter. Cameron Heyward returns for his 15th season to anchor the defensive line alongside Keeanu Benton and Larry Ogunjobi.
Special teams remain consistent, with Chris Boswell returning as the kicker and Pressley Harvin III handling punting duties.
While Rudolph’s selection has surprised many, the Steelers’ brass insists the team is focused on winning now. “Every season is a new chapter,” said GM Omar Khan. “We believe Mason can write a good one.”
The Steelers open the 2025 season at home against the Cincinnati Bengals in what will be an early test for Rudolph and a team looking to reclaim its spot atop the AFC North.
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