Mason Rudolph has recently spoken out about his experience attending a Donald Trump rally in Pittsburgh.
The Steelers quarterback, along with team captain Miles Kilebrew and former player Rocky Bleier, appeared on stage with the president at the U.S. Steel Irvin Works facility, where they celebrated a significant $14 billion trade deal with Nippon Steel and presented Trump with a personalized “Trump 47” jersey.
Following the event, the Steelers organization addressed upset fans by sending out a letter emphasizing that the opinions of players are their own. Rudolph reflected on the controversy, expressing to reporters that the freedom to have differing opinions is what makes America “great.
“Every day you look on social media, there’s a constant, you know, that’s the nature of social media,” Rudolph noted [h/t Pittsburgh’s DSEN]. “It’s the nature of why America is so great, because everyone is entitled to their own opinion and speech is free. So par for the course.”
Rudolph’s remarks follow the release of a letter obtained by Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, which the Steelers sent to fans who were displeased with the players’ participation in the Trump rally. The letter stated: “We appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts with us. As valued fans, your voice is an essential part of what makes our Steelers community and fan base so strong,”
“We understand that a recent rally in Pittsburgh has generated a range of reactions from our fan base. Our alumni and current players make their own individual decisions that reflect their views, and they do not necessarily represent the views of the entire Pittsburgh Steelers organization. Thank you again for sharing your thoughts. We appreciate your passion and your continued support of the team.”
At the rally, Trump was honored with his own custom Steelers jersey, and the illustrious title of “honorary Steeler” was bestowed upon him. Additionally, he was dubbed a “Hall of Fame” president by those in attendance.
In return, the former president praised Rudolph’s potential to lead the team as they navigate through uncertainty regarding their quarterback lineup.
With ongoing speculation about Aaron Rodgers’ next move, his decision to join the Steelers is still up in the air, despite rumors suggesting a strong preference on the part of the 41 year old to sign with Pittsburgh.
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“I happen to think a really good quarterback is a man named Mason Rudolph. I think he’s going to get a big shot. He’s tall, he’s handsome, he’s got a great arm, and I have a feeling he’s going to be the guy,” Trump commented on Rudolph’s prospects with the Steelers.
Amidst the commotion prompted by his rally appearance with Trump and the continuous speculation about Aaron Rodgers, Rudolph maintained his focus on his performance on the field.
“That’s nothing new to me. There’s been constant noise,” Rudolph confided to journalists.
“That is the nature of the NFL. So I am used to that for a long time. Now I’m doing nothing but being the best I can be to help our team get better this spring.”
