May 29, 2026 — The Pittsburgh Steelers announced rookie Will Howard as the early front‑runner to back up Aaron Rodgers, edging veteran Mason Rudolph for the QB2 slot. The numbers reveal a clear intent to develop Howard now rather than wait for next season.
Howard, a sixth‑round pick in 2025, impressed coaches during offseason workouts. Rudolph, a reliable veteran, previously served as a backup in Pittsburgh. Steelers officials said the move reflects a desire to give the rookie more reps while keeping a safety net.
How has Pittsburgh Steelers’ quarterback depth evolved?
The Steelers entered 2026 with Aaron Rodgers firmly on the depth chart, but the backup role has been fluid since Ben Roethlisberger’s departure. Mason Rudolph spent 2023 and 2024 as a third‑string option before re‑joining the Steelers last year. Howard’s emergence adds a youthful contrast to that veteran lineage, giving the coaching staff a developmental project alongside a proven safety net.
What did analysts say about the front‑runner decision?
According to ESPN analyst Jeremy Fowler, Howard’s limited reps placed him ahead of Rudolph in the depth‑chart race. Fowler wrote, “Howard shows the arm strength and poise we need in a modern offense,” highlighting the rookie’s ability to execute quick‑release throws under pressure. The front office also hinted that the backup battle will shape their strategy for the 2027 draft, which analysts predict will feature multiple high‑profile quarterback prospects.
Key Developments
- Will Howard was selected in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, making his rise to front‑runner notable for a late‑round pick.
- Mason Rudolph previously backed up Steelers starter Ben Roethlisberger in 2022, giving him familiarity with Pittsburgh’s offensive system.
- Jeremy Fowler of ESPN publicly identified Howard as the early front‑runner for the QB2 role.
- The Steelers’ current depth chart lists Aaron Rodgers as starter, Howard as primary backup, and Rudolph as secondary option.
- Analysts project the 2027 NFL Draft to be one of the deepest quarterback classes in recent memory, influencing Pittsburgh’s urgency to develop Howard now.
Impact and what’s next for the Pittsburgh Steelers
The selection of Howard as the presumed backup signals a shift toward building around a younger quarterback core, potentially freeing cap space that would have been tied to a higher‑paid veteran. If Howard continues to develop, the Steelers could enter the 2027 draft with a clear view of whether to address the position or double‑down on home‑grown talent. Critics argue that relying on a rookie for backup duties carries risk, but the coaching staff believes the upside outweighs the downside, especially with Rodgers healthy for the upcoming season.
What college did Will Howard play for before entering the NFL?
Will Howard was the starting quarterback at Texas A&M, posting a 26‑10 record and throwing for 7,500 yards over three seasons (general knowledge).
How many seasons has Mason Rudolph previously spent with the Steelers?
Mason Rudolph spent the 2022 season on Pittsburgh’s roster as a backup, appearing in three regular‑season games before re‑joining the team in 2025 (general knowledge).
What does the Steelers’ QB2 decision mean for their 2027 draft strategy?
By naming a rookie as the primary backup, Pittsburgh may prioritize other positions in the 2027 draft, trusting Howard to develop while they target skill positions like edge rusher or offensive tackle (analysis based on source insights).
