The Pittsburgh Steelers may still hope that Aaron Rodgers returns, but for now they are moving ahead with a different plan.
As offseason workouts begin, Pittsburgh has named Will Howard as QB1, giving the young quarterback his biggest opening yet while the franchise waits for clarity from the veteran. It is not a permanent declaration about the season ahead, but it is the clearest sign yet that the team cannot afford to sit still.
Rodgers remains unsigned, and recent reports have suggested there is still no final decision on whether he will continue his career. That leaves the Steelers in an awkward position, balancing respect for an established star with the practical need to prepare for 2026.
For Howard, it creates a window that did not really exist a year ago.
The former Ohio State quarterback entered the league as a sixth-round pick in 2025 and spent his rookie season learning behind Rodgers. His in-game action was limited, but the experience of working behind a future Hall of Famer gave him valuable time inside the system.
Why Pittsburgh could not afford to wait any longer
Even if Rodgers is still the preferred outcome for some inside the building, the Steelers needed a starter for spring work.
That decision matters because reps are critical at this stage of the calendar. A young quarterback needs command of the huddle, timing with receivers and a chance to show coaches whether he can handle a larger role. By putting Howard first for now, Pittsburgh is at least creating some structure while uncertainty continues around Rodgers.
The move also protects the team from losing valuable development time.
What this means for Howard and Rodgers
This does not necessarily mean the Steelers have closed the door on Rodgers.
If he decides to return, the conversation could shift quickly. But until that happens, Howard has a real chance to make an impression and show he is more than a placeholder. For a young quarterback entering his second year, that opportunity could shape his future in a major way.
So while Rodgers keeps Pittsburgh waiting, the franchise has little choice but to keep moving.
And for now, that means seeing what Will Howard can do with the first real spotlight of his NFL career.
Read the full article here
