The Pittsburgh Steelers’ quarterback situation has been a major topic of conversation in the media this offseason. With no clear starter heading into summer programs, uncertainty continues to surround the position. While the team remains interested in veteran free agent Aaron Rodgers, his lack of a decision has opened the door for other quarterbacks on the roster to take advantage of valuable reps as offseason activities get underway.
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Steelers' Ben Roethlisberger meets with former Packers QB Aaron Rodgers before a home game.
One quarterback drawing significant attention is rookie Will Howard. His talent and potential have excited fans since he was drafted earlier this year. In a recent article by Brian Batko of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Howard spoke to the media about his role and offered insight into the current atmosphere within the unsettled quarterback room.
"I’m trying to know my place a little bit, not step on anybody’s toes or anything like that, but at the same time still be inquisitive and ask questions when I can and when I need to," Howard said. "I think we’ve got a really good dynamic in the quarterback room."
Howard was chosen in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, a move that came after the Steelers had been linked to several quarterback prospects in the lead-up to draft weekend. With no clear starter in place and Rodgers’ decision still up in the air, the stakes were especially high for Pittsburgh. Despite the uncertainty, the Steelers opted to select Howard, who many view as a potential draft day steal. However, given that he was taken on the final day of the draft, there are still questions about whether he has what it takes to develop into the team’s future franchise quarterback.
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Steelers rookie quarterback Will Howard looking to throw the ball during training.
Even if Rodgers doesn’t sign, it’s unlikely that Howard will see much playing time this season. Opinions are split on how the Steelers should handle his development. Some argue that he should start right away to gain valuable experience, noting that the worst-case scenario could simply be a poor record and a higher draft pick next year. Others believe it’s better for him to sit and learn from the sidelines, giving him time to develop before being thrown into action. The Steelers have faced similar situations in the past, sometimes out of necessity, but the results haven’t always been what the team or its fans have wanted.
While Rodgers continues to delay his decision, Howard is taking advantage of the extra reps during offseason programs to develop and improve. Howard openly admitted he struggled on the first day, a vulnerable moment especially in the high pressure league, but it's a promising sign of his willingness to learn and his commitment to growth. As a newcomer not only to the team, but to the entire league, it's also encouraging to see a positive and supportive dynamic within the quarterback room, especially given the heavy speculation and outside scrutiny surrounding the position.
If the regular season began today, Mason Rudolph would most likely be the Steelers’ starting quarterback. After spending last season with the Tennessee Titans, Rudolph returned to Pittsburgh this offseason. Having previously played for the Steelers, he brings valuable familiarity to the offense and team dynamics, an important asset, especially for a rookie like Howard. Rudolph has also spoken to the media about Howard, offering positive remarks and support for the young quarterback.
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Mason Rudolph prepares for a pass during Steelers training camp.
The Steelers Have A Lot To Prove
Pittsburgh's front office has faced growing criticism over their handling of the Rodgers situation. It’s been quite some time since rumors first connected Rodgers to Pittsburgh, yet with offseason programs already underway and no sign or word from him, concerns about his commitment are becoming even more talked about.
This situation adds even more pressure on the Steelers heading into the upcoming season. If Rodgers does sign, he’ll need to show that the long wait was justified and aim to finish his Hall of Fame-caliber career on a high note. If he doesn’t, the Steelers must prove they can still succeed without him, giving Rudolph a chance to silence the doubters. One way or another, the team has a lot to prove, both to critics and to its fan base.
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