The Pittsburgh Steelers are still awaiting quarterback Aaron Rodgers' decision on whether he will play in the 2026 NFL season. As the process moves forward, it appears that a contingency plan is now in place.
NFL insider Jason La Canfora reports that the Steelers are not pursuing any other veteran options via NFL free agency or trade. Instead, the team will have a quarterback battle between Mason Rudolph and Will Howard this summer.
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While there is real excitement in the organization about third-round pick Drew Allar, who is being coached by Mike McCarthy, the rookie isn't set to see the field any time soon. Rudolph will likely be the favorite to win the Steelers' starting quarterback competition, but it will be an open battle.
The Steelers organization is reportedly "very excited" about Howard's development entering his second season. While the Eller selection added some uncertainty to Howard's future in Pittsburgh, he remains a signal-caller who is highly rated in the organization.
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In his career as the Steelers' starting quarterback, Allard has compiled a record of 8–5–1 in 14 starts. He also has a 21-13 TD-INT ratio with an 86.7 passer rating in 26 career appearances with Pittsburgh. Howard, a sixth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, never saw the field in his rookie season.
For now, there remains tentative hope that Rodgers will announce his return and be the Steelers' starting quarterback in 2026. If he retires, the team that looked to be a playoff contender this upcoming season may instead be headed for a transition year where it will struggle to post a winning record.
