3 trade landing spots for Steelers QB Mason Rudolph if Aaron Rodgers returns

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made it clear that a three-player quarterback room is what they'll carry onto their 53-man roster in 2026. And if Aaron Rodgers returns, that leaves Mason Rudolph as the odd man out.

Considering the extreme unlikelihood that the Steelers would part ways with Will Howard or Drew Allar in 2026, here are three trade landing spots if the team decides to part ways with Rudolph.

Indianapolis Colts

With the uncertainty surrounding Daniel Jones' Achilles tear recovery and Anthony Richardson's trade request, the Colts could be in the market for a quality backup like Rudolph, who can start games if necessary.

New York Jets

The Jets are apparently all in on Geno Smith in 2026, and while that could be a disaster waiting to happen, the only projected QB2 options on their roster would be either Bailey Zappe or fourth-round rookie . Rudolph would give the Jets a more trustworthy backup option while also potentially pushing Smith for the starting job if he starts slipping early.