For the Pittsburgh Steelers, the 2026 season is about much more than wins and losses. It marks the final chapter of Aaron Rodgers’ Hall of Fame career—and the beginning of what could become one of the franchise’s most intriguing quarterback competitions in years.
Rodgers has publicly confirmed this will be the final season of his NFL career, giving the Steelers one last opportunity to chase a championship with one of the greatest quarterbacks the game has ever seen.
But while Rodgers commands the spotlight, the real story may be unfolding behind him.
A Franchise Preparing for Life After Rodgers
The Steelers know they can’t wait until Rodgers retains to identify their next franchise quarterback. That’s why the organization has quietly assembled a fascinating quarterback room featuring veteran Mason Rudolph, second-year quarterback Will Howard, and rookie Drew Allar.
Training camp has already shown that while Rodgers remains the unquestioned starter, the battle behind him is far from settled. The team’s first unofficial depth chart listed Rodgers as QB1, Rudolph as QB2, Howard as QB3, and Allar as QB4.
Those rankings, however, may not tell the full story.
Will Howard Has the Inside Track
Howard enters his second NFL season with an advantage that can’t be ignored.
The former Ohio State quarterback spent last season learning the Steelers’ offense and adjusting to the speed of the professional game. That year of development gives him a head start over rookie Drew Allar.
Howard has reportedly looked comfortable during camp, showing improved command of the offense while taking advantage of every preseason rep available. His familiarity with the playbook could prove invaluable when roster decisions are made.
For a franchise that values continuity and preparation, Howard has positioned himself well to become Rodgers’ long-term backup.
Drew Allar’s Ceiling Is Hard to Ignore
If Howard offers experience, Drew Allar brings upside.
The former Penn State star entered the NFL with first-round talent before injuries and an inconsistent final college season caused him to slide into the third round. Many around the league viewed the selection as tremendous value for Pittsburgh.
Since arriving in Latrobe, Allar has flashed the arm strength that made him one of college football’s top quarterback prospects. Coaches have praised his development, and several deep throws during camp have generated excitement among teammates and fans alike.
His physical tools may ultimately give him the highest ceiling in the Steelers’ quarterback room.
The challenge will be proving he can consistently translate those flashes into reliable quarterback play.
Is It Really Howard vs. Allar?
While some fans have framed the competition as Will Howard versus Drew Allar for one remaining roster spot, the reality may be more complicated.
Veteran Mason Rudolph currently sits ahead of both young quarterbacks on the depth chart, but his role could become more fluid as the preseason unfolds. Several analysts believe Pittsburgh could ultimately choose to keep both Howard and Allar because of their developmental potential, even if one begins the season lower on the depth chart.
If roster numbers become tight, every preseason snap will matter.
Howard must prove he’s ready to be a dependable NFL backup today.
Allar must convince coaches his long-term upside is too valuable to risk losing.
The Preseason Could Decide Everything
Rodgers isn’t expected to play extensive preseason snaps, meaning Howard and Allar should receive plenty of opportunities to make their case.
Every drive, every third-down conversion, and every red-zone possession will be evaluated.
Coaches will be looking beyond statistics.
They’ll evaluate command in the huddle, decision-making under pressure, accuracy, leadership, and how each quarterback responds after mistakes.
Those are often the qualities that determine who survives final roster cuts.
Looking Beyond 2026
No matter how the depth chart shakes out this August, one fact remains clear.
The Steelers are entering a transition unlike any they’ve experienced since Ben Roethlisberger retired.
Aaron Rodgers’ final season provides a unique bridge between the present and the future. While Pittsburgh hopes the future Hall of Famer can lead one last playoff run, the organization is simultaneously auditioning the quarterbacks who may inherit the offense in 2027 and beyond.
Whether it’s the steady development of Will Howard or the immense potential of Drew Allar, the Steelers appear committed to finding their next answer under center.
The competition may begin as a fight for a roster position.
Before long, it could become the battle to determine the next face of one of the NFL’s most storied franchises.
