Overview

• Thompson capped the preseason by going 11-of-13 for 152 yards and a touchdown, finishing the exhibition slate at 73.2% completions for 498 yards with four touchdowns and one interception.
• Former Steelers Ramon Foster and Charlie Batch said Thompson outplayed Mason Rudolph and deserves real consideration to serve as Aaron Rodgers’ primary backup.
• Head coach Mike Tomlin offered praise for Thompson’s work, though Pittsburgh has not announced any changes to the quarterback depth chart.
• Rudolph’s preseason included 166 passing yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions, keeping scrutiny on his hold of the No. 2 role.
• Analysts note Pittsburgh must finalize its 53-man roster soon, with options that include keeping both quarterbacks, entertaining late-round trade interest in Thompson, or following projections that juggle spots with rookie Will Howard’s status.