Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback Will Howard (18) throws during the second half of the Cotton Bowl Classic College Football Playoff semifinal game against the Texas Longhorns at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on Jan. 10, 2025. Ohio State won 28-14. Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Steelers' Aaron Rodgers Move Greatly Impacts Former Ohio State Star Will Howard

Originally posted on Ohio State Buckeyes on SI
By Ben Cooper | Last updated Jun 5, 2025 7:30 PM ET

The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers, which will affect former Ohio State star Will Howard's rookie campaign.

The Steelers drafted Howard in the sixth round of the NFL Draft. Prior to the signing of Rodgers, Howard had a shot at earning the starting job by the start of the season or during the season.

However, with the four-time MVP coming in, Howard will spend his first season as a backup.

In his senior season at Ohio State, Howard had a great season, completing 73 percent of his passes for 4,010 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. He also rushed for 226 yards and seven touchdowns.

While the 23-year-old will be a backup his first season, that isn't necessarily a bad thing. He will have the opportunity to sit and learn behind an NFL legend, one of the most talented quarterbacks of all time.

Rodgers may not have the best perception in the media, but Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love has only spoken well of his mentorship when Love sat behind Rodgers for three years.

Howard should benefit from the veteran mentorship of Rodgers and could become the Steelers' quarterback next season.

This article first appeared on Ohio State Buckeyes on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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