As the Pittsburgh Steelers continue preparing for the start of 2025 training camp, the team finally finds itself with a true answer at the quarterback position. After signing future Hall of Fame quarterback and four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers to a one-year deal worth up to just under $20 million, Pittsburgh is now expected to turn its attention towards adding wide receiver depth for the new starting quarterback.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) practices at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex during the 2025 minicamp, Tuesday June 10, 2025.
Rodgers may prove to play a massive role both on and off the field, as the 21-year veteran has publicly committed to mentoring Steelers rookie Will Howard. Howard, a sixth-round selection out of Ohio State, is a promising rookie that is expected to make an impact in the future. Howard should become a major beneficiary of Rodgers' presence throughout training camp, as he will now be playing behind one of the greatest to ever do it.
ESPN
Steelers' Will Howard throws the football during the College Football Playoff.
A sixth-round pick, Howard was widely regarded as one of the top steals of the draft by many. A five-year college veteran, Howard shined throughout his time at Ohio State and played a crucial role in their National Championship run. When asked about the process that went into drafting Howard, Steelers General Manager Omar Khan gave an explanation as to why the move was made.
"We did lots of homework on him." Khan stated. "I had the opportunity to spend a lot of time with him through the process and getting to know him."
Khan then went on to speak about Howard's impact at Ohio State, while praising the rookie's ability to be a true leader, and run an offense.
"Just can't say enough about what he meant to that Ohio State team... The fact that he was able to just really take charge of that offense and that team in a lot of ways, it's just really, really impressive."
While Howard may not see the field throughout his rookie season, the former college star is expected to take a major leap with Rodgers as his mentor. Howard is a five-year college veteran that split time at both Kansas State and Ohio State, and should face no problem taking on a developmental role throughout the 2025 season. Fans should continue to monitor Howard throughout the offseason, as the rookie has a chance to truly shine throughout training camp.
With Rodgers set to mentor Howard throughout the 2025 season, the team is expected to shift gears towards adding playmaking depth for the veteran quarterback. Rodgers, who is fresh off a failed two year tenure with the New York Jets, is a player that is past his prime but is still widely expected to make a big impact this season.
Rodgers' time in New York is highlighted by injuries and mediocre play, as an achilles injury left the quarterback sidelined for the entire 2023 season, only to be followed by an underwhelming year in 2024.
Steelers Fans Frustrated With Rodgers' Lack Of Participation Throughout Mini Camp
With Rodgers officially under contract in Pittsburgh, fans have taken to social media to express their frustration with the former Packer's lack of participation throughout mini camp. Rodgers, who was not seen at multiple drills throughout the teams' first official practices, is expected to slowly ease his way into things and is not expected to be a full participant prior to the start of training camp.
Head Coach Mike Tomlin commented on the situation as well, stating that the coaching staff wants Rodgers to focus more on the playbook and learning the offense before training camp begins at the end of July. Despite the frustration, Rodgers will be a full participant later this summer and should face no issues running the Steelers' offense.
Despite struggling during his time as a Jet, Rodgers is just four years removed from winning MVP in 2021 and very well may thrive with DK Metcalf and Pat Freiermuth as his top options. Rodgers is entering his second year coming off a torn achilles as well, as the future Hall of Fame quarterback is expected to enter the 2025 season as the healthiest he has been in years.
Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers' DK Metcalf during the team's 2025 minicamp.
With Rodgers set to start in 2025 and Howard expected to continue developing, the Steelers find themselves with a solid mix of younger and veteran players in their quarterback room.
Howard should thrive with Rodgers as his mentor as well, as the former Ohio State quarterback was a star throughout his five years on the college level. With both Rodgers and Howard set to make an impact throughout training camp, fans should continue to monitor Howard's improvement throughout the offseason.
Do you believe Howard will be a true starting quarterback in the future? Comment Below!
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