5 options to upgrade the Detroit Lions backup quarterback situation

The idea of Rudolph to the Lions comes via Justin Melo of The Draft Network. With Mitch Trubisky and rookie Kenny Pickett being brought into the fold, the former third-round pick quickly finds himself No. 3 on the depth chart in Pittsburgh. So there’s certainly something to the idea the Steelers would and should be open to trading him between now and Week 1.

Rudolph has started 10 games (5-4-1 record) for the Steelers over the last three seasons. His lone start last year happened to come against the Lions in Week 10, with Ben Roethlisberger out due to COVID-19, and he completed 30 of 50 passes with 278 total yards (242 passing) in a 10-10 tie.

The Lions simply need a backup who can keep things on the rails if he has to play/start in Goff’s place, and maybe even make a string of NFL-caliber throws once in awhile. Rudolph seems capable of that.

The defensive coaching staff schemed against Rudolph in a game last season. The Lions played Pittsburgh in the 2021 preseason, and will play them in their preseason finale this year.

So if the Lions don’t try to trade for Rudolph, it won’t be because they haven’t seen enough of him to get perspective on if he can be an upgrade behind Goff.