Steelers Analyst Urges Mike McCarthy to Keep Will Howard Over Mason Rudolph

Will Howard could reportedly be the odd quarterback out when the Pittsburgh Steelers finalize their 53-man roster, but Steelers analyst Andrew Fillipponi strongly disagrees with that possibility.

According to reports, head coach Mike McCarthy and the Steelers could enter the 2026 season with only three quarterbacks. With Aaron Rodgers expected to remain the starting quarterback and Drew Allar also competing for a roster spot, Howard and Mason Rudolph could be battling for the final position.

Steelers analyst wants Will Howard retained

Fillipponi argued that Pittsburgh should keep Howard instead of Rudolph if the team decides to carry three quarterbacks. He made his position clear on social media after reports emerged about the Steelers’ potential roster plans.

“I would be adamantly against that. Cut Rudolph loose,” Fillipponi wrote.

The argument comes after Howard delivered an encouraging performance during Pittsburgh’s preseason matchup against the Green Bay Packers. The former Ohio State quarterback completed seven of nine passes for 86 yards and was sacked once.

How the Steelers quarterbacks performed against Packers

The Steelers defeated the Packers 28-9, with Rodgers sitting out while the other three quarterbacks received playing time.

Rudolph completed 10 of 11 passes for 93 yards and was sacked twice. Howard finished with seven completions on nine attempts for 86 yards, while Allar produced the most impressive statistical performance of the group.

Allar completed 10 of 13 passes for 153 yards and two touchdowns. He also added a rushing touchdown, strengthening his case for a place on the final roster.

The performances have made the Steelers’ quarterback depth chart particularly interesting with roster decisions approaching.

Mike McCarthy praises Will Howard and Drew Allar

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Howard’s roster status, McCarthy was complimentary of both young quarterbacks after the preseason victory.

The Steelers coach praised their ability to command the huddle and remain composed during the game. He specifically highlighted Howard’s response to difficult down-and-distance situations and his two-minute drill.

McCarthy also praised Allar for his strong performance, meaning both young quarterbacks appear to have made an impression on the coaching staff.

Ben Roethlisberger makes case for Will Howard

Howard has also received support from former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. The two-time Super Bowl champion believes Pittsburgh should give Howard additional opportunities with stronger players around him.

Roethlisberger suggested that the Steelers could reduce some of Rudolph’s preseason reps and give Howard more opportunities to operate with the team’s better offensive players.

He also suggested giving Rodgers a day off during preseason action and allowing Howard to take additional snaps. The goal, according to Roethlisberger, would be to evaluate what Howard can do with a stronger supporting cast.

Will Howard faces competition from Drew Allar

The Steelers selected Howard with the No. 185 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft after he helped Ohio State win the national championship. Pittsburgh later selected Allar with the No. 76 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Both young quarterbacks entered training camp competing for opportunities behind Rodgers and Rudolph. Allar’s strong preseason performance could make the roster decision even more difficult for McCarthy and the Steelers coaching staff.

Howard’s experience in Ohio State’s championship-winning season, meanwhile, gives Pittsburgh another reason to evaluate his long-term potential before making a final decision.

Steelers face Jets in next preseason game

The Steelers will have another opportunity to evaluate their quarterback competition when they face the New York Jets on August 21. The game could provide valuable information before Pittsburgh finalizes its roster.

With Rodgers established as the starter and Allar, Howard and Rudolph competing for the remaining spots, every preseason snap could influence McCarthy’s final decision.

Bottom line

Will Howard could be facing an uncertain future in Pittsburgh if the Steelers decide to keep only three quarterbacks. However, Andrew Fillipponi believes the team should retain Howard and release Mason Rudolph instead.

Howard’s preseason performance, combined with support from Roethlisberger and positive comments from McCarthy, could strengthen his case. The upcoming preseason matchup against the Jets may provide another important opportunity for the young quarterback to prove he belongs on the Steelers’ 2026 roster.