The Steelers have agreed to a one-year extension with quarterback Mason Rudolph for the 2022 season.
News of the potential for an extension came out earlier in the day.
Sources: The #Steelers are closing in on a 1-year extension with QB Mason Rudolph. Nothing done yet, but look for it soon for the Steelers’ backup. He’ll be signed through 2022.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 29, 2021
It makes sense for the Steelers, who currently do not have a quarterback under contract beyond the 2021 season. While Ben Roethlisberger's deal runs through 2024, after this season, his contract includes all voidable years that kick in three days after the Super Bowl.
And Josh Dobbs and Dwayne Haskins, the other two quarterbacks on the team's roster, are signed for the 2021 season.
Rudolph, a third-round pick in 2018, also is signed for just this season in the final year of his rookie contract. But he's shown the Steelers enough in his limited playing time that they're willing to at least give him the opportunity to be the long-term answer if the 2021 season is the final one for the 39-year-old Roethlisberger.
In 15 appearances, including nine starts, Rudolph has led the Steelers to a 5-4 record. He's completed 61.7 percent of his passes with 15 touchdown passes and 10 interceptions while throwing for 2,089 yards.
His extension could also mean the Steelers aren't at all interested in selecting a quarterback in this weekend's draft.