Rudolph and Washington Make Plays, Headlines During Steelers Rookie Minicamp

Mason Rudolph and James Washington spent this past weekend taking part in Pittsburgh’s three-day rookie minicamp, along with five other Steeler draftees, various undrafted free agents and a few tryout candidates.

Let’s see how the former Cowboy duo fared in their first taste of NFL life.

Rudolph Impresses On the Field

During his first taste of NFL life Rudolph stole the headlines. First by discussing a text message he received from QB1. Second, and more importantly, by the plays he made on the practice field at UPMC Rooney Sports Complex.

“I like the way the guys are acclimating themselves,” said head coach Mike Tomlin. “Some draft picks, some noteworthy guys are showing their pedigree, which is expected on Day 2. Mason (Rudolph) made some plays, James Washington, and others.

Rudolph looked good from the pocket and seemed to took instruction well, specifically from first-year Steelers OC Randy Fichtner.

New offensive coordinator Randy Fichtner putting third-round QB Mason Rudolph through his paces. pic.twitter.com/FooTxh4JlV

— Mike Prisuta (@DVEMike) May 11, 2018

Your first look at Mason Rudolph throwing passes for the Pittsburgh Steelers.#HereWeGo pic.twitter.com/3dsDcga3IO

— 247Sports (@247Sports) May 11, 2018

And it didn’t take long for Rudolph to show off his deep-ball acumen.

A look at Mason Rudolph letting it fly to the sideline during rookie minicamp. pic.twitter.com/jpamf5bWXZ

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) May 14, 2018

He also appeared to make a quick early impression on some of his new teammates. Wide receiver Marcus Tucker is a veteran when it comes to rookie minicamps, competing for a spot for his third-straight year.

He offered his thoughts on Rudolph in an article by PennLive.

“I think the most that I’ve gotten from him so far is he’s got a really big arm, strong arm,” Tucker said. “He throws a great ball.

“And I like his leadership thus far.  I feel like the kid is really able to bring the team in and get everybody settled and get ready and get rocking. So I’m excited for that and to see where he goes.”

Tucker said that leadership quality is something he notices, even during a three-day camp without pads.

“Certain guys just take command of the huddle,” Tucker said, “and I think he’s one of those guys that really grasps the togetherness of the offense.” [PennLive]

Rudolph-Washington Connection Still Strong

The record-breaking tandem that lit it up in orange and black may not produce any black and gold highlights any time soon, but given a chance this past weekend, Rudolph went to his familiar target.

Mason Rudolph completes one of his first practice passes to collegiate teammate James Washington. Next pass is a bit high. pic.twitter.com/QaJpxtUtDu

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) May 11, 2018

On Day 2 Saturday, the two looked good, hooking up for a pair deep TDs according to Kevin Gorman of the Tribune Review.

Much was made of it the Steelers drafting Oklahoma State wide receiver James Washington in the second round and Cowboys quarterback Mason Rudolph in the third.

On Saturday, they showed why.

Rudolph connected with Washington – No. 2 to No. 13 – for a long touchdown pass along the right sideline not once but twice. If they made it look easy, it’s because they were the best pass combination in the nation last fall. [TribLIVE]

There’s not a ton that can be learned during rookie minicamp. There’s a big difference in going through drills in shorts and what you can glean once you get into actual practice. But it’s a start and neither of OSU’s departed record-setters seem to be anything but ready for the moment.