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Steelers Focus on Roster Balance, Trusting Will Howard

4/12/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Pittsburgh Steelers face the 2026 NFL Draft amid uncertainty about Aaron Rodgers' return.
With the draft approaching, the Steelers will not press for a quarterback, trusting their 2025 sixth-round pick Will Howard.
Analysts suggest LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier could be a developmental option due to ties with head coach Mike McCarthy.
With 12 draft picks, the Steelers plan to balance the roster by selecting across multiple positions.

History

Historical Context

The NFL merged with the AFL in 1970, creating a more competitive league and establishing a unified draft system. The Pittsburgh Steelers, who selected quarterback Terry Bradshaw first overall in the 1970 draft, capitalized on this by winning four Super Bowls. Today, their strategy of developing talent internally, as seen with sixth-round pick Will Howard, reflects a shift in roster management in professional football.

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Story summary

The Pittsburgh Steelers face the 2026 NFL Draft amid uncertainty about Aaron Rodgers' return.
With the draft approaching, the Steelers will not press for a quarterback, trusting their 2025 sixth-round pick Will Howard.
Analysts suggest LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier could be a developmental option due to ties with head coach Mike McCarthy.
With 12 draft picks, the Steelers plan to balance the roster by selecting across multiple positions.

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