Mike McCarthy is excited about Will Howard

The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially introduced Mike McCarthy as their next head coach in a press conference on Tuesday afternoon. McCarthy began with an emotional statement, saying Pittsburgh is his world, as it clearly means a lot to the Pittsburgh native to be the head coach of his hometown team.

As questions got rolling, McCarthy was asked about what’s next for developing the quarterback position in Pittsburgh – the largest lingering question the Steelers have ahead of them.

“I think you’re always developing the quarterback,“ McCarthy said. ”I’ve been blessed to have great starters. The last one in Dak Prescott, Aaron in Green Bay and Brett [Favre]. But, we’ve always approached it as a quarterback room. That second quarterback, that third quarterback, they need to emulate the starter. Because that starter is dictating the rhythm and timing and precision with the perimeter guys.“

McCarthy adds that he’d like Aaron Rodgers on the team in 2026, but made it known he was excited about Will Howard.

“I’m really excited about Will Howard,” McCarthy said. “I think he’s someone that really came on at Ohio State. I’m anxious to work with him. It would be great to have Aaron back, but Will and Mason – I’m really excited to get started with those guys.”

Rudolph and Howard will enter the 2026 offseason as the only quarterbacks under contract for the Steelers, though it is possible Rodgers returns for his second season with the Steelers, and his 22nd overall in the NFL.

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