Steelers' Rudolph clears concussion protocol, set to return after bye

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph has cleared the NFL's concussion protocol, the team announced Wednesday.

An independent neurological consultant ruled that Rudolph will be able to return to action following the Steelers' Week 7 bye.

The second-year passer suffered a concussion and was taken to hospital in Week 5 after a helmet-to-helmet hit from Baltimore Ravens safety Earl Thomas. He was discharged that same evening but missed Pittsburgh's following contest.

Rudolph took over for Ben Roethlisberger in Week 2 when the veteran suffered a season-ending injury. He'll likely remain the team's starter moving forward.

The Steelers have a home date with the Miami Dolphins in Week 8.