Mike McCarthy Pushes Back On Narrative Surrounding Steelers QB Will Howard: "He's A Winner"

The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted quarterback Will Howard in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. It is not very often that a quarterback selected so late in a considerably weaker draft class ends up becoming the potential face of a franchise. However, many pundits and fans in the Steel City have faith in Howard’s abilities and his potential to grow into a starting role. Despite the long odds, there is a sense of excitement surrounding what Howard could bring to the team in the coming seasons.

Steelers legend and former quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has publicly come to Howard’s defense, emphasizing that with the right opportunities, Howard could make a meaningful impact in Pittsburgh. Roethlisberger believes that Howard has the tools and mentality to succeed, and that patience and proper development will be key. His endorsement adds credibility to the growing optimism around the young quarterback, signaling that insiders who know the position best see promise in Howard’s future.

Since Mike McCarthy was hired as the Steelers’ new head coach, much of the conversation has centered on his ability to develop Howard. Steelers insider Mark Kaboly recently shared insight on the Kaboly + Mack podcast into what he believes McCarthy would say to push back against the narrative that the team is lukewarm on Howard. McCarthy made it clear he is genuinely excited about Howard when he was hired, but not everyone is buying it. Kaboly, however, believes his enthusiasm is serious.

"There is some talk about the Steelers just being phony about what they believe in him, how much," Kaboly said while speaking about Howard on his podcast on Tuesday. "Trust me, I really do believe Mike McCarthy likes him for the fact of his intangibles. Again, he's a winner. He's a big-bodied guy who is a smart guy."

According to Kaboly, McCarthy would stress that the team remains committed to Howard’s growth, and that any perceived doubts are exaggerated by outside observers rather than reflective of the organization’s long-term plans for the quarterback.

Howard got to be mentored by Aaron Rodgers in the 2025 season, and it seems likely that Rodgers could return in 2026 with the Steelers. That would give Howard another year to learn from him while also being developed by McCarthy and his coaching staff. That is a big win for the young QB.

"Everything else, [McCarthy] can teach him," Kaboly said. "He views him as a moldable block of clay. He thinks that if he has a year or two with him, he can mold him into something and teach him because he's smart."

While many sixth-round quarterbacks never see the light of day, Howard represents a unique case of potential meeting opportunity. The combination of McCarthy’s development track record, Rodgers’ mentorship, and Howard’s own work ethic creates a rare environment where late-round draft status may not define a career. 

Steelers Looking For A New Hero

Success in Pittsburgh will depend not only on Howard’s talent, but also on his ability to absorb lessons, adapt quickly, and handle the pressure of a passionate fan base that remembers the heights of Roethlisberger’s era. What makes this situation compelling is that it tests the Steelers’ approach to quarterback development in a modern NFL that increasingly rewards adaptability, intelligence, and resilience. 

If Howard thrives, it could reshape how teams evaluate and nurture overlooked talent, offering a blueprint for turning long-shot prospects into franchise cornerstones. In a city hungry for a new hero, Howard is hopeful to get a chance on the stage to prove himself.

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