Could former Ohio State QB Will Howard start for the Steelers, or will they sign Aaron Rodgers? Buckeye Break

Football fans and analysts alike are constantly debating the future of NFL franchises, especially at the most critical position: quarterback. As the league evolves with a focus on passing efficiency, athleticism, and leadership, teams face tough decisions about developing young talent versus signing established veterans. The Pittsburgh Steelers, a storied franchise with a rich history and a longstanding reputation for stable quarterback play, find themselves at such a crossroads in 2024. The question on many minds: Could Ohio State alumnus Will Howard step in as a starter for the Steelers, or will they pursue a proven superstar like Aaron Rodgers? To answer this, we need to explore the backgrounds of these quarterbacks, the Steelers’ current roster and strategic direction, and the broader NFL quarterback landscape.

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### The Steelers’ Quarterback Situation: A Brief Overview

**Historical Context and Recent Developments**

The Steelers have historically been known for their stability at quarterback, with figures like Terry Bradshaw, Ben Roethlisberger, and more recently, a series of veteran backups and transitional starters. Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement after the 2021 season left a void that the team attempted to fill with a mix of young players and veterans, including Mitch Trubisky and Kenny Pickett.

**2024 Outlook**

Kenny Pickett, the Steelers’ first-round pick in 2022, entered the 2024 season as the presumed starter. While he showed flashes of talent, consistency and experience remain areas of concern. The team’s front office and coaching staff are always seeking to improve at the position—either by developing their current quarterback or by adding a seasoned veteran to contend for the job.

The Steelers are known for their quarterback-centric stability, but they also recognize the importance of having a reliable, high-level signal-caller to contend for championships. Their recent history indicates an openness to acquiring proven talent if the circumstances are right.

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### Will Howard: The Ohio State Quarterback’s Profile

**Background and College Career**

Will Howard, born in 1999, has been a prominent figure in Ohio State football, but his college career is more closely associated with Kansas State University, where he transferred after starting as a backup at Ohio State. At Kansas State, Howard has developed a reputation as a cerebral, efficient passer with good leadership qualities, solid arm talent, and athleticism.

**Strengths**

– **Experience and Maturity:** Howard has been a starter for multiple seasons at Kansas State, showcasing growth and resilience.
– **Football IQ:** Known for his mental acuity and understanding of complex offensive schemes.
– **Mobility:** While not a dual-threat in the mold of Lamar Jackson, Howard has enough athleticism to extend plays and escape pressure.
– **Leadership:** Recognized as a team leader with a commanding presence on the field.

**Weaknesses**

– **Arm Strength:** Compared to NFL elite quarterbacks, Howard’s arm strength is considered average, which could limit deep-ball efficiency.
– **Athleticism:** Not as mobile or elusive as some NFL starters, potentially limiting his ability to escape pressure at the highest level.
– **Experience in NFL-style offenses:** Coming from Kansas State’s system, he may need adjustment to NFL schemes.

**Draft and Development Prospects**

Howard was not a first-round pick but has been viewed as a developmental quarterback with potential upside. His size (6’5”, 225 lbs) and leadership qualities make him an intriguing project for teams willing to invest developmental time.

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### Can Will Howard Start for the Steelers?

**Assessing the Fit**

– **Developmental Stage:** Howard is still considered a developmental prospect rather than a finished product. While he has starting experience in college, adjusting to NFL speed and complexity is a different challenge.
– **Current QB Depth:** Pittsburgh’s current roster includes Kenny Pickett, with veteran backups and young prospects behind him. The team is likely to prioritize a veteran if they seek immediate stability.
– **Playing Style:** The Steelers’ offense, under offensive coordinator Matt Canada, has shown a preference for a balanced attack with some improvisation. Howard’s mobility and intelligence could fit if given time to develop, but he would likely be a backup initially.
– **Timeline:** If the Steelers are in win-now mode, they might prefer an established veteran rather than a rookie. If they’re building for the future, Howard could be a developmental project.

**Realistic Outlook**

It’s unlikely Howard would step in as a starter immediately unless Pittsburgh faces injuries or underperformance from Pickett. However, he could be a valuable backup or practice squad player who develops over time.

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### The Case for Signing Aaron Rodgers

**Why Rodgers?**

– **Proven Elite Talent:** Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP, has been one of the most consistently excellent quarterbacks of the past decade.
– **Immediate Impact:** His presence could elevate the Steelers’ offense instantly, providing leadership, accuracy, and playmaking ability.
– **Experience in Big Moments:** Rodgers has a track record of success in playoff scenarios, something the Steelers value highly.
– **Fit with Pittsburgh:** His style of play, intelligence, and leadership align well with the Steelers’ culture.

**Potential Challenges**

– **Cost:** Rodgers commands a high salary and draft capital, which could be a consideration given the team’s salary cap and roster needs.
– **Age:** At 40+, durability and longevity are concerns, although Rodgers has maintained high performance levels into his late 30s and early 40s.
– **Trade and Contract Logistics:** Acquiring Rodgers would involve significant trade assets and negotiations.

**Historical Precedent**

The Steelers have historically been cautious with high-profile quarterbacks but have also shown willingness to make bold moves when the opportunity aligns with their championship aspirations.

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### Which Path Makes More Sense for the Steelers?

**Immediate Contender or Rebuilding?**

– **If the Steelers are aiming for a Super Bowl in 2024:** The logical choice is to pursue Aaron Rodgers, leveraging his talent and experience to maximize their championship window.
– **If they’re rebuilding or looking to develop a young core:** Investing in Will Howard as a backup and developmental project could make sense, especially if they believe in his long-term potential.

**Financial and Strategic Considerations**

– Signing Rodgers would be a short-term move aimed at immediate success.
– Developing Howard would be a long-term investment, aligning with a rebuilding or transition phase.

**Current Trends in the NFL**

Quarterback mobility, improvisation, and experience are highly valued. Rogers fits that mold, while Howard offers a more traditional developmental profile.

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### Broader NFL Landscape and the Future of the Steelers’ QB Room

**Market Dynamics**

In recent years, NFL teams have prioritized veteran quarterbacks or high draft picks. The Steelers, with a solid but inexperienced starter in Pickett, might prefer a veteran like Rodgers or a talented developmental quarterback like Howard.

**Draft and Free Agency Options**

Besides Howard and Rodgers, teams are exploring other options like signing veterans (e.g., Teddy Bridgewater), drafting high-upside prospects, or trading for established stars.

**The Role of the Draft**

The NFL Draft remains a key avenue for teams to find their future quarterback. The Steelers’ recent draft history indicates a willingness to develop young talent, but they also recognize the value of immediate impact players.

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### The Verdict: Who is the Better Fit for Pittsburgh?

**Will Howard’s Potential as a Starter**

While Howard has shown promise and possesses qualities desirable in a quarterback, he remains a developmental prospect. It’s unlikely he would be the Steelers’ starter in 2024 unless extraordinary circumstances arise. However, he could develop into a solid NFL starter with time and coaching.

**Aaron Rodgers’ Proven Stardom**

Rodgers offers immediate, high-level quarterback play that could transform the Steelers’ offense and elevate their Super Bowl chances. Given the team’s current window and the importance of a reliable quarterback, Rodgers remains a prime target if the team is willing to absorb the financial and logistical costs.

The Path Forward for the Steelers

In the end, the decision hinges on the Steelers’ strategic vision. If they prioritize immediate success and believe Rodgers can lead them to a championship, pursuing him makes the most sense. His proven talent, leadership, and experience give them the best chance to contend in 2024.

However, if the team is committed to a longer-term rebuild, developing Will Howard as a future starter could be the plan—though that would likely require patience and time. Given their current playoff aspirations and the NFL’s competitive landscape, the smart move in 2024 appears to be pursuing Rodgers or a similar veteran star.

**In summary, while Will Howard’s potential is promising, the Steelers’ best chance to maximize their window of contention lies in signing Aaron Rodgers, unless they elect to prioritize youth and long-term development with Howard or another emerging quarterback.**