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Former Steelers QB with 18,543 Career Rushing Yards and 124 Passing Touchdowns Signs with Denver Broncos After "Return Home" Attempt Fails

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – January 22, 2026

Mason Rudolph, former quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, has officially signed a future contract with the Denver Broncos, marking a significant turn in his career. While he still has a contract with the Steelers, Rudolph publicly admitted that his negotiations for a stable position and more playing time in Pittsburgh had failed, and he was forced to seek a new opportunity.

Rudolph, who has dedicated many years to the Steelers, shared that despite discussions about extending his contract and finding a solid role, the team was unable to provide him with a strong commitment. “I couldn’t keep waiting for an opportunity that was never going to come,” Rudolph said in an interview. “After unsuccessful negotiations, I decided to open my eyes and look for a place where I could have the chance to play more regularly.”

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With an impressive career total of 18,543 rushing yards and 124 touchdowns, Rudolph has proven his ability to lead the team and deliver impressive performances with long drives, even through difficult times. Throughout his career, Rudolph has had breakout games that elevated his importance, making him one of the most experienced quarterbacks highly valued by teams.

However, Rudolph also admitted that the shadow of Aaron Rodgers at the Steelers was too large, and this made it difficult for him to further develop within the team. “As long as Aaron was there, I knew my opportunities would be very limited. I couldn’t just sit and wait for an opportunity that wasn’t coming,” Rudolph shared. “It’s disappointing, but I understand that in football, you can’t keep waiting for a chance.”

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“I’ve always wanted to return to Pittsburgh, but when that didn’t happen, I decided to open my eyes and find a new opportunity. Denver gave me that chance, and I’m really excited about this next challenge in my career.”

After finishing the 2025 season, Rudolph garnered interest from several teams, and the Denver Broncos offered him a great opportunity. He has signed a short-term contract with the Broncos, where he could play a key role in their offensive lineup.

Although Rudolph still has a contract with the Steelers, his decision to move to Denver is a strategic step to find continuous playing time. With the Broncos facing a challenging situation with starting QB Bo Nix sidelined due to an ankle injury, Rudolph is an ideal option to lead the team.

With this future contract with Denver, Rudolph not only finds a new opportunity but also affirms his determination to pursue a starting QB role, aiming to lead the team and prove his value in the 2026 season.

BREAKING: Bears Among Top Landing Spots for Former $141 Million Future Hall of Fame Pass Rusher
Chicago, Illinois – January 2026 Chicago Bears are reportedly one of the top landing spots for Khalil Mack, a former $141 million edge rusher, as he is set to hit free agency in the spring. The 34-year-old player, widely regarded as a future Hall of Famer, is expected to be a top target for teams looking to add a veteran pass rusher to their roster, and the Bears could be the perfect fit. After spending the past few years with the Los Angeles Chargers, Mack had a solid 2025 season, recording 5.5 sacks and 39 quarterback pressures. While Mack may not be the dominant force he once was, he remains a top-tier pass rusher and a leader with invaluable experience, potentially providing a significant boost to the Bears' defense, which is on the rise. According to Zachary Pereles from CBS Sports, the Bears could be the most likely destination for Mack. “Mack returns to Chicago, where he starred from 2018-2021. The Bears need to boost their pass rush without spending too much, and Mack fits that perfectly,” Pereles said. The Bears have the salary cap flexibility to bring Mack in without making a massive financial commitment, making him a sensible option for a team looking to bolster its defense without overspending. The Bears have shown strong defensive potential under head coach Mike Macdonald, but Mack could provide the veteran presence needed for a group of young, developing pass rushers. His leadership and ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks would be a welcome addition, and his past success with the Bears makes him an ideal candidate to return to Chicago. However, the Bears won’t be the only team competing for Mack. Other teams like the Cincinnati Bengals, Carolina Panthers, and Seattle Seahawks are also interested. The Bengals may need a replacement for Trey Hendrickson, the Panthers have multiple defensive needs, and the Seahawks have the cap space to make a big splash signing. “Bears is my old home, where I spent some of the most important years of my career. Even though I’ve been away, Chicago has always been in my heart. Coming back here is not just an opportunity to contribute to the team but a homecoming journey. I believe I can bring strength and experience to help the Bears go further, and if given the chance, I’ll do everything I can to help the team achieve great things,” Mack shared. For Mack, the final decision will depend on the role he’s offered and which team is best positioned to contend for a Super Bowl in the years ahead. But as the Bears continue their pursuit of a championship, they remain one of the most attractive landing spots for this veteran pass rusher.