Pittsburgh Steelers Likely to Retain Aaron Rodgers, Cut Ties with Howard and Rudolph The Pittsburgh Steelers face uncertainty at the quarterback position due to Aaron Rodgers’ uncertain future. Rodgers has not yet decided whether he will return to the team, pursue a new opportunity elsewhere, or retire. Regardless of his decision, the Steelers are expected to retain Will Howard and Mason Rudolph in their quarterback room. However, some analysts, including The Athletic’s Zack Roseblatt, predict the team may instead part ways with both Howard and Rudolph in favor of drafting Garrett Nussmeier, a LSU product, to serve as Rodgers’ backup in 2026. Roseblatt argues that if Rodgers remains the starter, the Steelers must evaluate whether Howard is a viable long-term option or if a rookie like Nussmeier would better suit the team’s needs. Nussmeier, a second-round prospect, is considered a top-five talent in the draft class. He completed 64% of his passes for 7,699 yards and 52 touchdowns while throwing 24 interceptions during his college career. His physical attributes and arm strength align with Rodgers’ style, and his father, Doug Nussmeier, has a history of coaching in the NFL, including a stint under new Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy in Dallas. The Steelers hold the 53rd overall pick in the 2026 draft, which places them in a strong position to select Nussmeier on Day 2. With four projected picks on that day, the team could prioritize adding a young quarterback to complement Rodgers. Roseblatt suggests that retaining Howard and Rudolph might be a better strategy, as both players have shown potential. Howard, however, has yet to see significant playing time this season, while Rudolph’s career trajectory has been less promising.#aaron_rodgers #pittsburgh_steelers #will_howard #garrett_nussmeier #mason_rudolph
