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3 credible free agent backup quarterbacks the Detroit Lions could sign

By Brad Berreman

LANDOVER, MARYLAND - JANUARY 01: Carson Wentz #11 of the Washington Commanders throws a pass during the second half against the Cleveland Browns at FedExField on January 01, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Todd Olszewski/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MARYLAND - JANUARY 01: Carson Wentz #11 of the Washington Commanders throws a pass during the second half against the Cleveland Browns at FedExField on January 01, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Todd Olszewski/Getty Images) /
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Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Mason Rudolph

2022 Team: Pittsburgh Steelers

Once faintly thought of as the potential successor to Ben Roethlisberger in Pittsburgh, not that “Big Ben” was on board with any idea he could ever be replaced, Rudolph is now at the end of the line with the Steelers. Kenny Pickett is the guy under center now, and they will go another direction for his backups.

Rudolph started eight games in 2019 when Roethlisberger missed most of that season, and he made one start each in 2020 and 2021. That most recent start, Week 10 of 2021 when Roethlisberger sat out due to COVID, was against the Lions (30-for-50 for 242 yards, one touchdown and one interception; four carries for 36 yards). He did not see any regular season action last season.

Reports going into free agency suggested the Steelers were open to re-signing Rudolph again, and failing everything else to fill out the depth chart behind Pickett that could still happen. But he would do well to move on with his career, if possible, and pursue any and all other options. The Lions may very well be one of those options.

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