Former Steelers QB Has Bold Remarks About Aaron Rodgers' And Will Howard's Relationship

With free agency and the 2026 NFL Draft approaching, the Pittsburgh Steelers are still working to determine their starting quarterback for the upcoming season. Aaron Rodgers guided Pittsburgh to 10 wins and an AFC North title in 2025, but the 42-year-old has not yet decided whether he’ll return to the Steel City for a 22nd season. One former Steelers quarterback supports the idea of Rodgers coming back, believing his presence would not only boost the team’s chances in 2026, but for the foreseeable future as well.

While the team waits for Rodgers to make a decision, there has been some buzz circulating about the sixth-round pick from Ohio State, Will Howard. Howard did not take a single snap during his rookie year in 2025 as a hand injury sidelined him for the preseason, but his physical attributes along with his collegiate success has led some to believe that there could be potential there. New head coach Mike McCarthy even stated how excited he is to work with Howard. 

Steelers fans appear divided over who should be under center in 2026. One side wants to see Rodgers build on the success he delivered last season, while others are eager to see Howard get an opportunity to show what he brings to the offense. Former Steelers quarterback and current radio analyst Charlie Batch believes the debate doesn’t have to be one or the other. In his view, Pittsburgh could benefit from leaning on both quarterbacks, using experience and youth together to put the team in the best position to win now and in the years to come. 

While talking to Dave Dameshek of the Football America! podcast, Batch gave a unique take on what he feels would be best for the Steelers at the quarterback position. 

"Last year, I don't think [Rodgers] had a bad season, and he did that with limited help on the offensive side of the ball. But now, being able to add those pieces, you're bringing an offense that he's very familiar with that he spent 18 years with, and what better way for him to come in and help the young guy Will Howard," Batch said. "I just want to see the transition happen the way that Brett Favre did to Aaron Rodgers, Aaron did that to Jordan Love, and now Aaron can do that with Will Howard."

One of the biggest concerns some fans have about handing Howard the starting job in 2026 is whether he’s truly prepared for that responsibility. 

Asking a sixth-round pick to take his first NFL snaps as the starting quarterback of the Pittsburgh Steelers is no small task, especially for a franchise with championship expectations every season. However, if Howard were given another year to develop behind Rodgers, he could gain valuable experience and confidence. At least, that’s how Batch sees it potentially unfolding.

"I'm not sitting here saying this guy [Howard] is going to be a Hall of Famer. What I'm saying is based off what I saw in practice, I think he can [be the starter]," Batch said. "Obviously the Steelers have seen enough of him to draft him in the sixth round, and what they saw in the second half of the season in practice to say now that they're willing to make that move."

Batch’s perspective highlights the value of patience and proper development at the game’s most important position. 

Rather than rushing Howard into action before he’s ready, Pittsburgh could allow him to grow behind a future Hall of Famer, soaking in the preparation habits, film study routines, and leadership qualities that have defined Rodgers’ career. That type of mentorship is difficult to replicate in practice reps alone.

At the same time, Rodgers’ return would keep the Steelers firmly in win-now mode, especially in a competitive AFC. If Howard progresses the way the organization hopes, the transition could be seamless when the time comes. It’s a long-term vision that balances immediate contention with sustainable success, something franchises strive for but rarely execute perfectly.

Steelers Giving Rodgers A Deadline To Make Decision

As the offseason calendar begins to accelerate, the Steelers have made it clear they can’t afford to wait indefinitely. General Manager Omar Khan has reportedly informed Rodgers that a decision must be made before free agency officially opens. 

That urgency is heightened by last year’s experience, when the organization had to wait until July for Rodgers to finalize his plans. The prolonged uncertainty complicated offseason planning and limited flexibility. This time, the Steelers are determined not to let the situation drag deep into the summer. 

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