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Steelers Expect No Rodgers Decision Before Draft, Elevate Will Howard to QB1 at Minicamp

Pittsburgh enters draft week preparing for spring work without clarity at quarterback.

Overview

  • NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero said Monday the Steelers have not received Aaron Rodgers’ plans and do not expect a decision before the draft, with Will Howard taking first-team snaps as minicamp opens.
  • Team president Art Rooney II recently said the Steelers are “probably not” using their No. 21 pick on a quarterback, and Pittsburgh holds a league-high 12 selections that could support a later developmental option.
  • Head coach Mike McCarthy and GM Omar Khan have stayed in touch with Rodgers, but multiple reports say he has given no formal assurance he will play in 2026.
  • Veteran defensive tackle Cam Heyward publicly urged Rodgers to return, saying on The Rich Eisen Show he wants to “run it back” after last season’s playoff run.
  • Howard’s spring reps come with Mason Rudolph also in the room, positioning Pittsburgh to keep practice time productive while awaiting any decision that could line up closer to OTAs in mid-May.