Report: Steelers Make Will Howard Decision

Is Howard Facing Less Pressure Now?

If Pittsburgh is in fact locked in on the idea of holding onto four quarterbacks heading into the regular season, which is a rather unusual roster quirk around the league, Howard wouldn't have to worry about being cut and/or made available for trade as the odd man out if he were to lose the backup job to Mason Rudolph.

Perhaps the Steelers could give Howard some ease of mind should that be the case, which would allow the 2025 sixth-round pick to play more freely.

Still, the 24-year-old is on the horn when it comes to making up ground in the race for the No. 2 role with Rudolph in addition to proving himself as a potential long-term solution in the Steelers' quarterback room.

Howard was impressive in his preseason debut against the Green Bay Packers last week, throwing for 86 yards and completing seven of his nine attempts through the air.

He'll need to build on that performance against the Jets as the starter, however, and keep stacking good days as he continues to develop in Mike McCarthy's offense.

Otherwise, Howard would run the risk of losing the backup job and being a gameday inactive throughout his second year in the NFL.

Is Rudolph Affected By This Decision?

Rudolph isn't suiting up against the Jets after McCarthy stated he, "saw what he needed to," from the 31-year-old vs. Green Bay, serving as additional proof that he has the inside track for the backup job behind Aaron Rodgers.

Though Howard now appears to be a lock for the 53-man roster, it's hard to imagine Pittsburgh moving Rudolph unless another team comes in with an enticing trade offer.

"I can't imagine them not keeping Mason Rudolph," Dulac said. "I just can't in any situation. But I guess that's something they still have to sort out."

The Steelers are clearly fans of what Rudolph brings to the table, which is why they seem to be attached at the hip with him and will keep him in all likelihood, but maybe some conversations still are yet to be had.