James Jones Sounds the Alarm: Mike Tomlin’s Legendary Winning Streak Could End If Mason Rudolph Starts at QB
Pittsburgh, PA — Mike Tomlin’s legendary streak of never having a losing season as head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers has been one of the NFL’s most remarkable records. But according to former NFL wide receiver James Jones, that streak could very well come to an end — and it’s all dependent on who’s under center for the Steelers.
In a recent discussion on NFL Network, Jones made it clear that the Steelers’ playoff hopes would be severely hampered if backup quarterback Mason Rudolph were to take the starting role for the team.
“I hate to say it, but if Mason Rudolph is starting, Mike Tomlin’s streak is in serious jeopardy,” Jones said bluntly. “The reality is, Mason Rudolph just doesn’t have the ability to elevate this team. Tomlin’s never had a losing season because he’s always had quarterbacks who could get the job done. With Rudolph, I just don’t see that happening.”
The Pressure Is On
Tomlin’s extraordinary streak — which dates back to his first season as head coach in 2007 — has been a point of pride for both the Steelers and their loyal fanbase. No other coach in the modern era has managed to keep a team competitive for so long without experiencing a losing season. But this year, with uncertainty at the quarterback position behind Kenny Pickett, questions are beginning to rise about whether that streak can continue.
While Pickett has shown flashes of promise since being drafted in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, there have been moments of inconsistency. Should Pickett be sidelined for any reason, Rudolph would be the likely candidate to step in as the starter — a scenario that Jones finds concerning.
“Mason Rudolph has had his chances, and honestly, he hasn’t shown that he can lead this team,” Jones continued. “The Steelers need more than a game manager; they need a QB who can take control of the game, make plays, and get them in the playoffs. I don’t see Rudolph being that guy.”
Rudolph’s Track Record in Pittsburgh
Rudolph’s history as a starter for the Steelers doesn’t inspire much confidence. In 10 starts over the past few years, he’s posted a modest record of 5-4-1. However, his performance has often been marked by inconsistency and a lack of explosive playmaking. With a career completion percentage of just 61.5% and an average of 6.4 yards per attempt, Rudolph hasn’t proven himself to be a game-changer at the NFL level.
That inconsistency, coupled with a lack of deep-ball accuracy, has made him a liability in key situations. Tomlin has long been known for his ability to get the most out of his quarterbacks, but even the Steelers head coach might find it difficult to work magic with Rudolph at the helm for a prolonged stretch.
The Steelers’ Backup Plan
While Kenny Pickett remains the starter for now, the Steelers have to be ready for the possibility that he could miss time due to injury or other factors. In that case, the team would need Rudolph to step up — but is he capable of leading the Steelers back to the postseason and continuing Tomlin’s winning streak?
NFL insiders are divided on the issue. Some believe that Rudolph, if surrounded by the right supporting cast, could be serviceable enough to keep the Steelers competitive. Others, like Jones, aren’t convinced that the team can thrive under his leadership.
Tomlin’s Streak on the Line
For Mike Tomlin, the pressure is mounting. While the head coach has cultivated a culture of winning in Pittsburgh, the quarterback position remains a critical question mark. If Rudolph is forced into action and falters, it could mark the first losing season in Tomlin’s illustrious career.
However, one thing is clear: Tomlin is known for his ability to adapt and motivate his team. Despite the doubts about Rudolph’s potential, Tomlin may still find a way to keep the Steelers competitive — even if it means relying more heavily on the defense or running game.
“Mike Tomlin has always found a way to win, no matter the obstacles,” Jones concluded. “But if Mason Rudolph has to be the guy for a stretch, the streak is definitely in jeopardy.”
What’s Next for the Steelers?
As the 2025 NFL season progresses, the Steelers will undoubtedly face their share of challenges at the quarterback position. But if Rudolph is forced to take over for Pickett, the stakes have never been higher for Tomlin’s historic streak.
In the coming weeks, Pittsburgh fans will be hoping that their team’s quarterback play improves, and that the legendary coach can continue his run of success. But if Rudolph is the answer, the road ahead could be a rocky one.
