Will Howard 'Fired Up' to Learn from Aaron Rodgers as His Backup QB

The arrival of Aaron Rodgers in Pittsburgh signals more than just an uptick in the Steelers’ current season chances; it's a strategic move to elevate the franchise's quarterback future.

As Rodgers signed his one-year deal with the Steelers this past Saturday, the landscape of Pittsburgh's quarterback scene shifted dramatically. Previously, reliance was placed on less tested quarterbacks like Mason Rudolph and newcomer Will Howard. Without Rodgers, this could've been a heated contest for the starting spot.

Enter Rodgers, the seasoned tactician, who will stabilize on-field play and mentor these rising talents, setting the stage for a strengthened team even after his tenure.

Will Howard, fresh from leading Ohio State to a College Football Playoff National Championship victory in 2025, was picked in the sixth round of the April NFL draft by Pittsburgh. Howard embodies untapped potential waiting to be honed under Rodgers’ tutelage.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Rodgers expressed his commitment to Howard, “Will’s a good kid. I'm in his corner every single day, every meeting. My aim is to guide him however I can.”

The 41-year-old Rodgers, with two MVPs and a Super Bowl ring, knows the routine well. Once in Howard's shoes, he also backed up a Hall of Famer, Brett Favre, during the early days in Green Bay. His patience and learning then catalyzed his own triumphant rise.

Howard sees the mentorship opportunity as golden, stating with enthusiasm, “I’m fired up to learn from Rodgers. He's a legend I grew up idolizing. Sharing the locker room with him is surreal, and my goal is to absorb all I can and be the best support I can to him.”