According to reports, Mike Tomlin has provided an explanation for the decision to keep Mason Rudolph as the starting quarterback, opting for him over Kenny Pickett.

Reports from Pittsburgh suggest that while Mike Tomlin did not explicitly confirm Mason Rudolph as the starting quarterback for the crucial game against the Seattle Seahawks, he strongly hinted at it. However, Tomlin did not entirely rule out the possibility of Kenny Pickett, who is recovering from ankle surgery, making a return.

The potential decision has sparked debates among fans and analysts. Some argue that Rudolph should start, pointing to his impressive performance against the Bengals, where he contributed significantly to the team’s 34-11 victory. The argument emphasizes Rudolph’s deep-ball ability and his capacity to generate quick points, something Pickett has struggled with in recent years. Supporters of Rudolph also highlight the positive impact he could have on the overall offense, involving key players like George Pickens, Pat Freiermuth, and Diontae Johnson.

On the other side of the debate, there are those who advocate for Pickett’s starting role, emphasizing his status as the future franchise quarterback. They question the logic of sitting a player like Pickett, who underwent surgery to expedite his return, especially after Rudolph’s performance against a weak Bengals defense. This faction argues that Pickett, as the top quarterback on the depth chart, should not lose his starting position due to injury and needs valuable game reps for his development.

The debate delves into the broader context of the Steelers’ season, with discussions about the team’s goals and whether prioritizing the development of Pickett should take precedence over short-term success with Rudolph. The article presents varying perspectives on this quarterback dilemma, weighing factors such as performance, long-term considerations, and the potential impact on team dynamics.