Full Breakdown
Will Howard’s Preseason Start Puts Steelers’ Quarterback Future in Focus
8/20/2026, 11:56:27 PM
Core Event: Howard Starts vs. Jets Amid QB Roster Uncertainty
On Friday, August 21, the Pittsburgh Steelers will have second-year quarterback Will Howard start their second preseason game against the New York Jets. Rookie third-round pick Drew Allar is slated to take over in the second half, while veteran starter Aaron Rodgers and backup Mason Rudolph sit out. The matchup is billed as a decisive look at whether Pittsburgh will carry four quarterbacks into the regular season or trim the depth chart after the preseason.
Background & Context: The Four-QB Dilemma
Pittsburgh entered camp with Aaron Rodgers (QB1), Mason Rudolph (QB2), and two developmental prospects—Howard and Allar. After a 28-9 preseason win over the Green Bay Packers, both Howard and Allar exceeded expectations, prompting head coach Mike McCarthy to give them the bulk of the remaining reps. The 53-player roster limit forces a trade-off: keeping a fourth quarterback could thin depth at the defensive line, a unit the front office has emphasized as essential for its “win-now” window.
Data & Statistics
- Will Howard: 7-of-9 passes, 86 yards, rating 106.5; led a two-minute touchdown drive.
- Drew Allar: 10-of-13 passes, 154 yards, two passing TDs and a rushing TD.
- Mason Rudolph (preseason opener): 10-of-11 passes, 93 yards, rating 101.9, no turnovers.
These numbers show the young quarterbacks producing comparable output to the veteran in limited action, intensifying the roster decision.
Official Statements & Responses
Coach McCarthy called the plan “quarterback-friendly,” saying he wants to “max out the opportunities” for the two young players and that “we’ve got two games here, and I want to see those guys play as much as possible.” He added, “I saw what I needed to see from Mason last week,” indicating satisfaction with Rudolph’s performance. Assistant GM Andy Weidl said the decision rests with McCarthy and that the team will evaluate whether a four-quarterback roster is viable.
Criticism & Opposition
Analyst Mike DeFabo (via *The Athletic* podcast) argued Howard is unlikely to overtake Rudolph for the backup role, suggesting the Steelers may retain the veteran while developing the younger prospects.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Public statements emphasize openness to keeping four quarterbacks, yet no definitive roster decision has been announced. Sources differ on whether the Steelers view Howard as a long-term starter or a developmental project, leaving the outcome of the cut-down day unclear.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We’ve got two games here, and I want to see those guys play as much as possible,” — Mike McCarthy
- “I saw what I needed to see from Mason last week,” — Mike McCarthy
- “I don't think he's going to overtake Mason Rudolph for QB2,” — Mike DeFabo, *The Athletic*
What’s Next
The Jets game on August 21 is the first of two remaining preseason contests; a third is scheduled for August 27 against the Buffalo Bills. After the two games, the Steelers must finalize their 53-man roster, a deadline that will determine whether Howard secures a spot, joins a four-quarterback roster, or is released in favor of preserving depth at other positions.
