The Pittsburgh Steelers' offense is finally coming together. After future Hall of Fame quarterback and four-time league MVP Aaron Rodgers signed a one-year deal with Pittsburgh, the team is now expected to continue adding depth at other key offensive positions. Rodgers, who is more than likely entering the final year of his career, is slated to make a major impact as Pittsburgh's starting quarterback this upcoming season.
Rodgers may prove to make an impact off the field as well, as the former Green Bay Packers QB has publicly committed to mentoring rookie quarterback Will Howard. Howard, a sixth round selection in this year's NFL Draft out of Ohio State, is a dynamic first year player who is expected to be a huge beneficiary of Rodgers' presence throughout this upcoming season. While conversing with the media earlier this week, Steelers Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith took a moment to speak about Rodgers' mentorship towards Howard.
"That's a perfect set up for a guy like Will," Smith stated. "You know every quarterback room is different, the dynamics are different, but you get a veteran certainly where Aaron is at in his career, you know he wants to pass that knowledge down."
Smith then went on to speak about the rest of the Steelers' quarterback room, emphasizing the importance of communicating and working together.
"It couldn't be a better situation for a guy like Will Howard to have a guy like Aaron in the room, and Mason [Rudolph] and Skylar [Thompson], they are great guys. Those guys collaborate and that is what you want to see."
Howard, who played a crucial role in Ohio State's National Championship run last season, is a five-year college veteran who split time at both Kansas State and Ohio State. Howard is a young quarterback with explosive playmaking ability, and was widely regarded as one of the top steals of the draft. Rodgers' presence is expected to play a crucial role in Howard's overall development, as the former Buckeye now finds himself under the wing of one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
Despite Howard having a promising future, Rodgers will be the team's starting quarterback in Week 1 barring any injuries. Rodgers, who is fresh off a failed two-year tenure with the New York Jets, is a player that is far past his prime, but can still make a lasting impact on the Steelers' offense.
Steelers' Calvin Austin lll Continues To Emerge As A Top Option For Rodgers
With DK Metcalf solidifying himself as the Steelers' clear cut wide receiver one (WR1), Pittsburgh is expected to continue searching for a true second option behind the former Seahawk. Metcalf, who was acquired by the Steelers in a deal with the Seattle Seahawks earlier in the offseason, is an elite wide receiver that should have no problem shining with Rodgers as his quarterback. As Pittsburgh continues to evaluate all options, Calvin Austin lll continues to turn heads and emerge as a legitimate potential star.
Austin lll, who was recently named the team's wide receiver two (WR2) by Wide Receivers Coach Zach Azzanni, has reportedly been playing on an elite level throughout the offseason and is widely expected to have a breakout year in 2025. Austin lll will be a major beneficiary of Metcalf's presence as well, as Metcalf will require a lot of attention from opposing defenses. Entering the final year of his rookie deal, Austin lll is a rising star who is gearing up to start the most crucial season of his young career.
Despite not starting right away, Howard is expected to take a massive leap with Rodgers in front of him. Austin lll may shine as well, and the Steelers has a whole may actually put forth a respectable offense for the 2025 season.
