The Pittsburgh Steelers are still awaiting a decision regarding Aaron Rodgers’ future. Despite that, Mike McCarthy knows he has an alternative in Will Howard, whom he believes will have a great NFL career.
“People get caught up in what round he went in,” McCarthy said at the NFL League Meetings. “If I was drafting players that year, he wouldn’t have been around in the fifth or sixth round.
“I valued him higher than that based off Kansas State. And man, I thought he jumped out of the tv set during the college playoffs. What not is there to like about the guy? So, I think he’s definitely a real prospect as a starting quarterback.”
Howard or Rudolph
Will Howard is a major investment for the Steelers, even if Rodgers returns. Still, the former Buckeyes player will have to compete for a spot against Mason Rudolph, a seasoned veteran who is also looking for his chance to start in Week 1 in Steel City.
Mason Rudolph #2 of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
What will happen with Rodgers?
As of early April 2026, Aaron Rodgers remains a free agent as he mulls over whether to return to the Pittsburgh Steelers for a 22nd NFL season or retire. While he has not set a formal deadline, Steelers owner Art Rooney II expects a decision before the NFL Draft begins on April 23. Head coach Mike McCarthy remains optimistic about a reunion, noting that he and Rodgers have been in “constant communication”.
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Howard waits for his chance
Despite a hand injury that sidelined him during last year’s training camp, Will Howard is now fully healthy and focused on making his NFL debut in 2026. After a year of development within the Steelers’ system, he enters the upcoming season ready to compete for a spot on the active roster and finally showcase his skills on the professional stage.
