In an exclusive interview, McCarthy underscored that developing quarterbacks is his foundation and said he’s eager to work with Howard, stressing the importance of understanding Howard’s starting point and progression path.
Howard starred at Ohio State, completing 73% of his passes for 4,010 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, and helped the Buckeyes reach the 2024 national championship. His rookie season with Pittsburgh was slowed by a training-camp hand injury, but he later spent time learning behind Aaron Rodgers and Mason Rudolph.
Steelers general manager Omar Khan emphasized that building the next young quarterback was central to McCarthy’s hiring, noting that clarity at the QB position remains a priority amid a lack of proven options in free agency or trades.
McCarthy also left the door open for Aaron Rodgers, saying he would welcome the veteran back for the 2026 season after having spoken with him. Rodgers’ 2025 performance—3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns, seven interceptions, and a 94.8 passer rating over 16 games—adds value to the equation.
The coach’s confident outlook is rooted in his Green Bay tenure, where a long partnership with Rodgers helped produce Super Bowl XLV and 107 wins from 2006–2018, underscoring why Pittsburgh remains hopeful about Rodgers’ continued relevance.
With Howard at the center of the plan, Pittsburgh aims for quarterback stability and sustained success, keeping Rodgers as a flexible option as the 2026 offseason approaches.
