In a dramatic and unexpected twist during the NFL offseason, Pittsburgh Steelers quarterbacks Skylar Thompson and Mason Rudolph have made a major joint announcement that has reportedly left longtime head coach Mike Tomlin stunned and speechless. The two signal-callers — both of whom had been competing for a backup or rotational role behind presumed starter Russell Wilson — took the podium together at a team-organized media event and delivered news that sent shockwaves through the Steelers organization and the wider NFL.
The Announcement: A Joint Retirement — and New Venture
Thompson and Rudolph, standing side by side in front of a packed room at the Steelers’ UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, revealed that they will both be stepping away from professional football effective immediately. Even more surprising: they plan to launch a joint mental health and wellness foundation aimed at supporting current and former athletes across all levels of competition.
“Football gave us everything,” Rudolph began. “But it also came with challenges — mentally, emotionally, and physically. After a lot of reflection, prayer, and conversation with our families, Skylar and I decided it’s time to step away from the game to give back in a new way.”
“We want to help athletes — from high school to the pros — understand that strength includes vulnerability, and success includes balance,” added Thompson. “We’re not quitting football. We’re just changing the way we play our role in it.”
Coach Tomlin: “Didn’t See It Coming”
Mike Tomlin, known for his poise and composure, reportedly sat in silence as the two QBs made their announcement. Sources inside the organization say the decision was kept extremely private, with only close family and personal advisors informed ahead of time.
Later in a brief statement, Tomlin said:
“I respect their courage. These are two men who’ve given their all to this game and to this organization. What they’re doing next may be even more impactful than anything they did on the field.”
Ripple Effects Across the NFL
Reactions from around the league poured in within hours:
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Patrick Mahomes, who played with Thompson at Kansas State, tweeted:
“Proud of my guy Skylar. Wishing both him and Mason success in what’s next. That’s a bold, meaningful move.”
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Ben Roethlisberger, former Steelers QB:
“Shocking. But powerful. Mason’s always had leadership in him — this proves it.”
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NFLPA Executive Director Lloyd Howell also issued a supportive message, calling the decision “a testament to the evolving conversation around mental health and player empowerment.”
The Road Ahead
The Thompson-Rudolph Foundation for Athlete Wellness, already in development, will reportedly launch later this year. The initiative will focus on:
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Mental health support and education for student-athletes
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Post-retirement transition programs for pros
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Crisis response and peer support networks within locker rooms
Sources also suggest that both quarterbacks may take on media and public speaking roles, with a possible book or documentary in early discussions.
Steelers Quarterback Room in Flux
With Rudolph and Thompson exiting, the Steelers’ quarterback situation now turns to Russell Wilson as the clear-cut starter, with former first-round pick Justin Fields likely to step into a more prominent backup role. Pittsburgh is also expected to sign or draft an additional QB to provide depth heading into training camp.
