Steelers Bet on Familiarity and Quarterback Development with Mike McCarthy-and Will Howard is the Quiet Beneficiary
The Steelers don’t make coaching changes often. When they do, it’s not just a move-it’s a message.
By naming Mike McCarthy as the franchise’s fourth head coach since 1969, Pittsburgh didn’t just bring in a veteran play-caller with a Super Bowl ring. They brought in someone who understands the DNA of the city, the franchise, and-maybe most importantly-the quarterback position.
McCarthy’s return to his hometown isn’t just a feel-good story. It’s a strategic fit, especially for a team that’s quietly placing big hopes on a young quarterback still waiting for his first NFL snap. Will Howard may have been a sixth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, but don’t let the draft slot fool you-his situation is tailor-made for development.
Howard spent his rookie season behind Aaron Rodgers, soaking in every bit of wisdom from a future Hall of Famer during a playoff run. That’s not just clipboard duty.
That’s an immersive education in what it takes to lead at the highest level. The film study, the pre-snap reads, the in-game adjustments, the emotional control-it’s all part of a quarterback's toolkit, and Howard had a front-row seat.
Now, in Year Two, he’s got a head coach who’s built his reputation on molding quarterbacks. McCarthy’s track record speaks for itself.
He’s not just an offensive mind-he’s a technician. Timing, footwork, decision-making-these are the details he obsesses over.
And for a young quarterback like Howard, that’s exactly the kind of structure and mentorship that can fast-track development.
McCarthy isn’t hiding his enthusiasm, either.
“I’m really excited about Will Howard,” he said during his introductory press conference. “I think he’s someone that really came on at Ohio State.”
That’s not just coach-speak. McCarthy’s not in the business of handing out empty praise.
Howard earned that attention with a strong college résumé-4,010 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, and just 10 interceptions during his time at Ohio State. More than the numbers, though, it was his presence in pressure moments-leading the Buckeyes to a national championship-that caught the eye of coaches who know what winning football looks like.
Even with the uncertainty around Rodgers’ future, McCarthy made it clear that Howard is firmly in the mix.
“It would be great to have Aaron back,” he said, “but Will and Mason-I’m really excited to get started with those guys.”
That kind of recognition matters. It tells Howard he’s not just a developmental afterthought-he’s part of the plan. And with McCarthy’s hands-on approach, there’s a real opportunity here for the Steelers to build something sustainable at the quarterback position.
McCarthy’s philosophy is rooted in teaching. He’s not just calling plays-he’s building quarterbacks.
That’s the kind of environment Pittsburgh has needed. Before you can decide who your next franchise quarterback is, you’ve got to give the guys in the room a real shot to show what they can be.
Howard, for the first time, will get that shot.
The pieces are there. A coach who knows how to develop quarterbacks.
A young player who’s already been in the fire, learning from one of the best. A franchise that values continuity and structure.
And a fanbase that’s ready for the next chapter.
Will Howard may not have the spotlight yet, but don’t be surprised if he earns it. The story of a sixth-round pick rising through the ranks in Pittsburgh, under a hometown coach with something to prove, feels like classic Steelers football.
Gritty. Grounded.
And full of potential.
Now it’s on Howard to take the next step. The opportunity is real.
The support is in place. And the door is open.