The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially kicked off their offseason programs as they gear up for the upcoming regular season. This particular offseason has felt especially drawn out, with the team frequently making headlines and dominating media discussions. Numerous changes have been made to the roster, and these offseason activities are the first real opportunity to see how those pieces come together on the field.
Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Mason Rudolph goes through a drill during offseason workouts in Pittsburgh during the 2025 offseason.
One of the biggest storylines surrounding the Steelers this offseason is the glaring uncertainty at the quarterback position. At the moment, Mason Rudolph is the likely starter if the season were to begin today. With offseason programs underway, media availability becomes a regular part of the schedule, and Rudolph recently took the time to sit down for an interview with Missi Matthews for the Steelers. During the conversation, he was asked about rookie Will Howard, and Rudolph responded with nothing but praise for the young quarterback.
"He’s been great," Rudolph shared. "He’s a nice guy first of all, he’s a good guy to share the [quarterback] room with… I think he’s a big kid, athletic, throws the ball well… he’s got a lot of tools and excited to go to work with him.”
Despite the attention surrounding other quarterbacks on the roster, the frontrunner to start for the Steelers might not be either of them. Instead, all signs point to veteran free agent Aaron Rodgers, with the Steelers as favorites to land the accomplished quarterback. While Rodgers brings a wealth of experience and an impressive track record, questions continue to surface about his physical readiness and commitment to both the team and the demands of the upcoming season.
For Steelers fans, the rumors connecting Rodgers to Pittsburgh have felt like they've been lingering forever. The ongoing uncertainty has created growing frustration, especially with reports suggesting that the team has already extended an offer and is simply waiting on Rodgers' decision. This delay has led many to question how committed Rodgers truly is to joining the Steelers, a franchise known for its passionate fan base, and where the quarterback is expected to be a strong and dedicated leader.
Tom Horak / Imagn Images
Former New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers during a press conference.
Questions about Aaron Rodgers' commitment extend beyond just his delayed decision. At 41 years old, he's currently the oldest active player in the NFL, and it's clear he wouldn't be a long-term answer the way a younger option like Howard might be. Rodgers’ hesitation to make a final decision has only intensified fan speculation about his true intentions. With reports suggesting the Steelers’ front office is confident he’ll sign, many are left wondering what’s really causing the holdup, and whether he’s fully invested in becoming the leader of this passionate franchise, even for just one year.
Rodgers has developed a reputation for regularly skipping voluntary offseason activities throughout the later part of his career. During his time with the Green Bay Packers, and more recently with the New York Jets, Rodgers often chose to train on his own, saying it was because of personal preference and confidence in his routine. However, people argue that skipping these sessions can hinder chemistry-building with new teammates, especially wide receivers and offensive linemen. As Rodgers continues to weigh a decision about his future, this pattern adds to the uncertainty surrounding his potential role with the Steelers.
Current Steelers Players Are Getting More Reps
Since Rodgers has yet to make a final decision, despite being the likely favorite to sign, his absence is creating opportunities for other players to step up. Howard is benefiting by moving up the depth chart and receiving increased reps, giving him valuable on-field experience. Likewise, Rudolph is essentially operating as the starting quarterback for now, taking the majority of first-team snaps and continuing to build chemistry with the offense.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers' Will Howard during rookie minicamp in 2025.
The more opportunities these players receive, the better their chances of proving themselves. Rudolph has expressed his desire to make the most of any reps he's given, and as Rodgers continues to delay his decision, others are gaining valuable experience. While it’s unlikely that anyone would beat out Rodgers for the starting role if he signs, the extended wait is helping build a solid contingency plan in case he doesn’t.
What are your overall expectations of Rudolph, Howard, and the Steelers' offense this year? Comment below!
#SteelerNation
