The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted rookie quarterback Will Howard in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Howard entered the NFL with many doubting his talent and ability. Despite leading Ohio State to a National Championship victory, his draft stock didn’t rise as expected. The questions surrounding his game and potential left him in a position where he has to prove himself quickly at the next level.
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Steelers QB Will Howard during 2025 training camp in Latrobe, PA.
Howard started off strong in training camp, showing flashes of the talent that helped him succeed in college and making his way up the depth chart. His early progress impressed coaches and teammates alike, signaling that he could be a valuable asset for the Steelers. Unfortunately, an injury soon limited his development, and Howard was placed on injured reserve, temporarily halting his momentum and raising questions about when he might return.
On Wednesday, Howard joined Cam Heyward and Hayden Walsh on the podcast Not Just Football, where he revealed a hilarious story about one of his lesser-known duties as a rookie. He explained how he has to keep Aaron Rodgers stocked up on nicotine pouches, giving fans a glimpse into the lighter, behind-the-scenes side of life in the Steelers’ locker room. The story showcased Howard’s personality and the unique ways rookies often bond with veteran teammates.
"Aaron has been good," Howard said while speaking on the podcast on Wednesday. "Really the only thing I have to do like rookie thing, I got the snacks at Latrobe -- I try to get Aaron and make sure he is good on his nicotine pouches and any Mountain Valley Water he needs."
Now, it’s not clear which nicotine pouch flavor Rodgers would be using, but it’s a funny image to imagine Howard walking into a gas station to grab Rodgers’ Zyns or whatever he’s using.
Sebastian Foltz / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Steelers QBs Will Howard (left) and Aaron Rodgers (right) at mandatory minicamp.
In another hilarious story, Rodgers has been using wired headphones, apparently because he believes they are better for you. Heyward joked that Rodgers has even tried to get the rest of the team to adopt them. So far, Howard has not jumped on the trend, but he is getting close.
"I am not on it yet," Howard said. "He hasn't gotten to me yet like he got to [Ben] Skowronek yet. I don't know. I do have some at home. I used them the other week."
Rodgers entered the Steel City with many fans expecting him to be a major issue. That could not be further from the truth, as Rodgers has been an exceptional teammate and leader so far. Of course, as the 2025 season progresses and adversity hits, the Steelers fan base will get to learn more about him and how he handles difficult moments.
Steelers' Offense Not The Main Reason For Week 2 Loss
The Week 2 loss to the Seattle Seahawks was a low point for both the team and Rodgers. The offense did not look great, but the bigger concern was the defense. Even though the offense struggled, it ultimately did not matter in that game. The defense failed to stop the Seahawks’ rushing attack, and that is why they lost.
Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) prepares to throw downfield vs the Seattle Seahawks in Week 2 at Acrisure Stadium.
Now, there is plenty of fun and excitement surrounding Howard, Rodgers, and their mentorship dynamic, but Steelers fans ultimately want to see wins. Talent and leadership matter, but at the end of the day, victories are what define a season. Rodgers and this Steelers offense will look to bounce back on the road in Week 3 against the New England Patriots. The only way to truly settle down the Steeler fan base after a brutal loss is a big road win.
Has your opinion changed on Aaron Rodgers since he became a Steelers player? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me.
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