In his end-of-season press conference, Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin addressed the team's quarterback situation and laid out his plans for the upcoming offseason. Tomlin stated that the current plan is for Kenny Pickett to be the team's top quarterback moving forward, but emphasized that there will be competition for the position.

Tomlin acknowledged Pickett's efforts and expressed excitement about continuing to work with him. However, he made it clear that the team does not simply anoint anyone and believes that competition brings out the best in all players. Tomlin mentioned that Pickett will be challenged from a competition perspective in the future.

The Steelers currently hope that Mason Rudolph, who started at quarterback late in the season, will be a part of the competition. However, Rudolph is a free agent, and it is uncertain whether he will return to the team.

When asked about wide receiver Diontae Johnson's preference for Rudolph as the starter next season, Tomlin downplayed any potential locker room rifts. He expressed that competition is healthy and beneficial for all players, as it pushes them to perform at their best.

In terms of statistics, Pickett completed 62 percent of his passes for 2,070 yards in 12 games this season. He threw six touchdowns and four interceptions, with a passer rating of 81.4. On the other hand, Rudolph had a strong performance in his limited appearances, completing 74.3 percent of his throws for 719 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions. His passer rating stood at an impressive 118.0. Rudolph's performance in the playoff loss to Buffalo was notable, as he threw for 229 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.

As the Steelers head into the offseason, the quarterback position will be one of the key areas of focus for the team. Coach Tomlin's emphasis on competition suggests that the decision for the starting quarterback role is not yet set in stone, and both Pickett and Rudolph will have the opportunity to vie for the position.