Going into the season, Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph was relegated to the team’s No. 3 quarterback position. It was a role he embraced without comment or question. And for much of the season, Rudolph was listed among the team’s inactives.

But when the team needed him, Rudolph stepped up. Kenny Pickett suffered a high ankle sprain and it only took one game for Pittsburgh to realize Mitch Trubisky wasn’t the answer. So for the final three games of the regular season, Rudolph stepped in and brought a spark to the passing offense in a way that Pickett couldn’t.

It isn’t clear if Rudolph will return to the Steelers in 2024. Head coach Mike Tomlin addressed the media on Thursday and gave the impression they want to re-sign the soon-to-be free agent. But this offseason, unlike last year, Rudolph should have some options. But whether he stays or goes, Rudolph has earned the respect of the team and the fans.

Story originally appeared on Steelers Wire