Why Week 18 Should Belong to Will Howard if the Steelers Clinch the AFC North
The Pittsburgh Steelers just delivered a statement win over the Lions, and with the Ravens stumbling against the Patriots, the AFC North is suddenly Pittsburgh’s to lose. Depending on how things shake out Saturday when Baltimore faces Green Bay, the Steelers could lock up the division title before they even take the field against the Browns.
If the Ravens fall to the Packers, Pittsburgh clinches. If not, a win over Cleveland will do the trick.
Either way, if the Steelers secure the division before Week 18 kicks off, the conversation quickly shifts to who should be under center against the Ravens in the regular-season finale. And the answer might be simpler than it seems: give rookie quarterback Will Howard the start.
Let’s talk about why this makes so much sense.
A Golden Opportunity for Development
Howard, Pittsburgh’s sixth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, hasn’t had a chance to show what he can do. A preseason hand injury kept him sidelined, and he spent the early part of the season on injured reserve.
So far, he’s been more of a mystery than a project. But Week 18, especially in a game with no playoff implications, is exactly the kind of low-risk, high-upside scenario where you want to see what the kid can do.
This isn’t about throwing him into the fire. It’s about giving him valuable live reps in a real NFL game - something you just can’t replicate in practice or preseason. It’s a chance for the coaching staff to evaluate his pocket presence, decision-making, and command of the offense in a live setting, all without the pressure of playoff consequences hanging in the balance.
Why Not Mason Rudolph?
Mason Rudolph is a known quantity at this point. He’s taken snaps this season, and the Steelers have a clear picture of what he brings to the table.
He’s a steady veteran presence, but he’s not the future of the franchise. Starting him in a meaningless Week 18 game doesn’t move the needle forward.
Howard, on the other hand, represents a potential long-term answer - or at least a piece of the puzzle. With Aaron Rodgers possibly walking away after this season, Pittsburgh could be staring down a major quarterback decision in 2026. And with a draft class that’s not exactly overflowing with can’t-miss QB prospects and a free agent market that looks thin, internal options suddenly matter a whole lot more.
A Glimpse Into the Future
Let’s be clear: one game won’t determine Howard’s future. A strong showing in Week 18 doesn’t automatically make him the heir apparent to Rodgers.
But it could give the Steelers a glimpse - a valuable one - into what kind of player he might become. Maybe he flashes the poise and arm strength that made him a national champion in college.
Maybe he struggles. Either way, it’s information the front office and coaching staff need as they start planning for life after Rodgers.
And if he does show something? That gives Pittsburgh a leg up heading into the offseason. It might not change their draft board, but it could influence how aggressively they pursue a quarterback or how much they prioritize other needs.
Health Over Momentum
Let’s not forget the other key reason to sit the starters: health. The Steelers haven’t had many chances in recent years to enter the postseason with a healthy roster and home-field advantage.
This year, they’re in position to do just that. Resting key players in Week 18 - especially veterans like Rodgers - could be the difference between a one-and-done and a deep playoff run.
So if the division is locked up, there’s no reason to risk injury to Rodgers or other starters. Let the backups run the show. And more importantly, let Will Howard take the wheel.
Final Thoughts
Week 18 might not matter in the standings if the Steelers clinch early, but it could matter a whole lot in terms of the team’s future. Will Howard has waited all season for a shot. If the opportunity presents itself, Pittsburgh should hand him the keys and see where he takes them.
Because sometimes, the best way to prepare for the playoffs is to start thinking about what comes next.