Will Howard vs Aaron Rodgers? Rookie quarterback ready for battle

The Pittsburgh Steelers still haven’t received an answer from veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers on whether he’ll join them for the 2025 season, wait on another team, or retire. Without him on the roster, they’ve currently got Mason Rudolph and rookie Will Howard, whom they selected in the sixth round of this year’s draft. And Howard is ready to fight for the job, even if it’s against Aaron Rodgers.

Will Howard ready for QB battle in Pittsburgh

Will Howard made his debut at the Steelers’ rookie minicamp, and he emphasized his readiness, resilience, and desire to earn a spotno matter who he’s up against.

“I feel like to be in the NFL, you’re always fighting for a job no matter what,” said Howard. “If you’re not on your game one day, you know you can be gone. It’s a business. The things that I went through and learned how to push through adversity and how to come back from bad things, I learned so much.”

The Steelers have made an open offer to Rodgers, who was expected to keep taking his time and make a final decision after the NFL Draft. Well, it’s been a few weeks now, and still no word from Rodgers. If he declines the offer, Howard and Rudolph would be in competition for the starting role.

Rudolph has a bit of an edge simply due to his experience and familiarity with the organization, but Howard could end up surprising them if his confidence and determination are any indication.

“I’ve got a chip on my shoulder, and I’d like to carry that with me,” said Howard. “I’m just excited to be here. I’m blessed, and it couldn’t be a better place. The Steelers are built on blue collar. That’s how I like to play, with a chip on my shoulder, and hard-nosed. That’s what I’m about.”