Report: Steelers' confidence in Rudolph made 2020 1st-rounder expendable

The Pittsburgh Steelers traded a 2020 first-round pick to the Miami Dolphins for defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick last week due in large part to their optimism regarding second-year quarterback Mason Rudolph.

Pittsburgh placed a first-round grade on Rudolph prior to the 2018 NFL Draft and views him as a successor to Ben Roethlisberger, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports. The Steelers' long-term projection for the former third-round pick reportedly contributed to their willingness to part with a high selection in the Fitzpatrick deal.

Roethlisberger was ruled out for the season with an elbow injury Monday. The veteran fully intends to play out the remaining two years of his contract.

Rudolph, 24, is making his first NFL career start Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers. He completed 12-of-19 passes for 112 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception in relief of Big Ben last week.