Rudolph could have entered the 2026 season as the Steelers' starting quarterback if Aaron Rodgers had decided not to return to the team. With Rodgers back, however, Rudolph faces legitimate competition for backup slotting from second-year passer Will Howard and rookie third-round pick Drew Allar, who is recovering from an ankle injury. In that scenario, Rudolph may instead become the odd man out in a crowded four-man QB room, especially given the Steelers' apparent commitment to developing both Howard and Allar. Rudolph has established himself as a capable backup with starting experience, and if Pittsburgh makes him available, he could draw modest trade interest from teams looking to upgrade their No. 2 quarterback spot.