Steelers address Mason Rudolph’s Trump rally appearance sparking outrage, say views “do not necessarily represent” team

NFL: AFC Wild Card Round-Pittsburgh Steelers at Buffalo Bills - Source: Imagn — Mason Rudolph is once again a Pittsburgh Steelers' player [Image source: Imagn]

The Pittsburgh Steelers have come under fire after some players were spotted at a Donald Trump rally in the city on Friday. One of the most prominent attendees was quarterback Mason Rudolph. He was joined by safety Miles Killebrew. Steelers legend Rocky Bleier was also present.

The trio presented the U.S. president with a No. 47 jersey.

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This was not well received by some fans of the franchise. According to Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette on Monday, the backlash was so severe that the team had to send emails to those who opposed. The Steelers addressed the situation, saying the individual views of players do not represent those of the organization.

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"We appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts with us," the email sent to season-ticket holders reportedly read. "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 view of the entire Pittsburgh Steelers organization. Thank you again for sharing your thoughts. We appreciate your passion and your continued support of the team.”

Mason Rudolph makes his feelings known about rumors of Aaron Rodgers joining the Steelers

The biggest story of the offseason is the future of Aaron Rodgers. Shortly after being released by the New York Jets, the four-time NFL MVP has been linked with the Steelers.

If the veteran joins Pittsburgh, he is expected to become the team's starter, with Mason Rudolph backing him up. However, Rudolph, 29, is not fazed by the talk of becoming a backup QB.

"That’s nothing new to me," Rudolph said. "There’s been constant noise. 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.”

After spending a year in Tennessee, Mason Rudolph returned to Pittsburgh earlier this year by signing a two-year, $8 million deal.