The Pittsburgh Steelers are actively seeking their long-term starting quarterback, and second-year player Will Howard is viewed by the coaching staff as possessing the necessary foundation.

Following the conclusion of the NFL Owners’ Meetings in Arizona, the focus remains on solidifying the quarterback room for the near future. While the team anticipates re-signing Aaron Rodgers, who has been in regular contact with Head Coach Mike McCarthy, Howard remains a significant developmental piece.

Howard's Potential and Development Path

Will Howard, the Steelers' sixth-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, is facing a crucial season where he is expected to compete for the backup position, potentially against Mason Rudolph or another incoming player.

However, McCarthy has publicly expressed strong belief in Howard's potential to become a starter. McCarthy stated at the Owners’ Meetings that with specific refinements, a starting job could be in Howard's future.

Specific Areas for Growth

The head coach identified key aspects of Howard's game that require attention and improvement. These areas are central to his progression toward a starting role.

  • McCarthy mentioned the need for growth in Howard's footwork, stating, "I think there’s a lot of growth with his feet..."
  • He also noted areas concerning the mechanics of throwing the ball that need refinement.

McCarthy emphasized that there is substantial room for development, concluding, "My point is, there’s room for development there and I think there’s a lot to work with."

A Shift in Team Perspective

The high praise from McCarthy suggests that the second-year quarterback is now being seriously considered for a significant role, perhaps as Rodgers' backup or even seeing regular-season action in 2026.

This represents a notable change from the previous season. Last year, the Steelers never publicly outlined a development plan or discussed Howard's weaknesses because they did not view him as a future starter.

Conversely, McCarthy now clearly sees a tangible path forward for the young player, indicating a vested interest in his success that was absent before.

McCarthy's High Draft Valuation

McCarthy has consistently expressed his admiration for Howard, even suggesting that his draft position was too low based on his college performance. The coach indicated that if he had been drafting that year, Howard would have been selected much earlier.

"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," McCarthy explained.

He further noted Howard's impressive showing during the college playoffs. McCarthy concluded that Howard is "definitely a real prospect as a starting quarterback," citing his overall appeal and talent.