The Pittsburgh Steelers entered into the 2025 NFL Draft with some question marks at quarterback. They have been entangled in a saga with 41-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers, but nothing has been considered guaranteed just yet. It does seem that a decision is coming soon—Rodgers will either suit up for the Steelers in 2025 or officially retire from football after a legendary career.
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Former Ohio State quarterback Will Howard celebrates during the National Championship.
Despite having multiple opportunities to draft one of the top quarterback prospects in this year’s class, the Steelers waited until the sixth round to select Will Howard. Pittsburgh believed they found excellent value at that spot and prioritized filling other pressing needs earlier in the draft. Howard, a big-bodied quarterback with dual-threat ability, adds depth to the room but isn’t expected to compete for the starting job right away.
Still, not everyone is counting him out. ESPN analyst Chris Canty recently said that if Rodgers doesn’t arrive in Pittsburgh, the Steelers should give serious consideration to starting Howard. Canty argued that the team has little to lose and everything to gain by seeing what they have in the rookie, especially if it helps shape their long-term quarterback plans.
"If Aaron Rodgers isn't gonna be on that team, it feels like it makes more sense to roll out there with Will Howard, and see what the kid can do," Canty said. "Let him start... And that way, you can have an informed plan about what's in your quarterback room before you make your quarterback plan for the 2026 offseason... If you're gonna lose games with Mason Rudolph and/or Skylar Thompson, it makes more sense to lose games with Will Howard, because you get the information."
The quickest way to put the quarterback debate to rest would be for Rodgers to publicly confirm his intention to play for the Steelers in 2025. At this point, it feels like there’s at least a handshake agreement between the two sides. The way Pittsburgh has approached the offseason—and especially the draft—only reinforces that belief. Team President Art Rooney II has expressed optimism on multiple occasions, making it clear he has a good feeling about Rodgers joining the team.
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Former New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers nods to acknowledge someone speaking in his direction.
Still, the Steelers have grown tired of waiting. While Rodgers hasn’t been given a public deadline, the organization can’t remain in limbo forever. If a decision doesn’t come soon, Pittsburgh seems prepared to move forward with Mason Rudolph, Howard, and veteran Skylar Thompson. It’s far from an ideal situation, but the Steelers may have no choice if Rodgers ultimately retires or backs out.
Of the three, Thompson is a veteran presence but has struggled to capitalize on starting opportunities in the past, showing why he’s best suited as a backup. Rudolph finds himself in a similar position. Despite playing a pivotal role in saving Pittsburgh’s 2023 season—somehow guiding them to a playoff berth—he hasn’t proven himself as a long-term starter. Without Rodgers, the Steelers will be relying on hope, development, and a little bit of luck.
Steelers' Uncertainty At Quarterback Remains Big News
The Steelers might believe Rudolph can manage games and keep the offense steady, but at this point in his career, it’s unlikely he’s the long-term answer at quarterback. Canty argues that Pittsburgh doesn't have time to waste—they need to find out what they have in Howard. If Rodgers doesn’t come, Canty believes the Steelers should start Howard in 2025 instead of Rudolph.
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Steelers QB Mason Rudolph smiles during his early years in Pittsburgh.
It’s a bold stance, and one that’s sure to spark debate among Steelers fans. While some may see the value in developing Howard right away, others will argue that Rudolph’s experience gives the team a better chance to win in the short term. Either way, the uncertainty at quarterback remains one of the biggest storylines heading into the season.
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