Insider suggests Steelers will make surprising quarterback decision

The Pittsburgh Steelers are all set at quarterback for the 2026 season, but there's plenty of uncertainty beyond that.

Aaron Rodgers has repeatedly stated that this will be his final season, and even if he were to run it back for another season, there's no clear heir apparent in Pittsburgh.

However, the organization remains high on both Drew Allar and Will Howard, and veteran Mason Rudolph remains on the roster as well. 

The Steelers are aware neither Allar or Howard are ready to contribute right now, which could lead to a surprising roster decision.

According to ESPN insider Brooke Pryor, they're likely to keep all four quarterbacks on the 53-man roster. 

The Steelers might keep all 4 quarterbacks on the roster 

“{Head coach Mike] McCarthy has never had four quarterbacks on his Week 1 roster, but that changes this season. While keeping four signal-callers takes away another roster spot, the decision is necessary because the gulf between Rudolph and the pair of young quarterbacks is sizable,” Pryor wrote.

Per the report, the Steelers want to keep a proven veteran backup like Rudolph, knowing that he might be asked to take the reins of the offense at some point.

“Keeping Rudolph along with Allar and Howard gives the Steelers an insurance policy for Rodgers and McCarthy more time to evaluate and develop potential future options,” Pryor added.

This makes sense, though it will obviously hurt the team's depth at another position.

Also, as much as Allar was always seen as a developmental project, scouts often tabbed Howard as a career backup.

Whatever the case, it seems McCarthy isn't ready to give up on any of the youngsters.