New theory on Steelers' Will Howard, Ty Simpson, Aaron Rodgers plans emerges

How people within the Pittsburgh Steelers allegedly do or don't feel about quarterback and 2025 sixth-round draft pick Will Howard became one of the more interesting storylines hovering over the franchise this winter. 

People within the Steelers have seemingly told any reporters who will listen that the club is high on Howard, but some nevertheless have predicted that Pittsburgh will ultimately select Alabama Crimson Tide signal-caller Ty Simpson in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. 

During the latest edition of his "Pro Football Talk Live" program, NFL insider Mike Florio discussed the Steelers' intentions for their quarterback room. 

Are Steelers embracing smokescreen season regarding Will Howard, Ty Simpson?

"I think they're trying to keep their cards close to the vest in hopes that Ty Simpson slips to them," Florio said about the Steelers, per Troy Montgomery of Steelers Depot. "All that Will Howard stuff is just smoke." 

As of the second Friday of March, Howard and longtime backup Mason Rudolph are on track to serve as Pittsburgh's top two quarterbacks during springtime workouts. Aaron Rodgers reportedly could inform the team that he's returning to serve as its QB1 at any point from before March comes to an end to the start of the draft on April 23. Additionally, former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins may or may not be a break-glass-in-case-of-emergency option for Pittsburgh. 

As for Simpson, some feel he has "questionable first-round talent" at best. That said, Mike Renner of CBS Sports is among the analysts who think the Steelers could be at least interested in making Simpson the 21st overall pick of the upcoming draft. 

How would Aaron Rodgers feel about mentoring Ty Simpson? 

"I think they'd like to get Ty Simpson and Aaron Rodgers, based on some stuff I heard," Florio added about the Steelers. "Rodgers plays for one more year, then Simpson takes over."

Rodgers has spoken highly of Howard since last year, so it's assumed the future Hall of Famer would have no problem continuing to mentor the 24-year-old. It's unclear how Rodgers would feel if those running the Steelers essentially gave Howard's spot on the depth chart to Simpson this spring.