Will Howard
Joe Sargent/Getty Images
Will Howard of the Pittsburgh Steelers has been a sponge trying to learn from Aaron Rodgers while recovering from a freak hand injury.
Since joining the Pittsburgh Steelers last offseason, future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers has seemingly shown nothing but true leadership both on and off the field. In fact, he helped guide young quarterback Will Howard through his first NFL season after the former Buckeye was drafted in the sixth round in last year’s NFL Draft.
While in a recent interview with The Pat McAfee Show, Rodgers spoke very highly of his understudy. The longtime signal-caller illustrated why Howard has a chance to have a long career in the NFL.
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ Future Could Be in Great Hands
Will Howard, Ohio State, Pittsburgh Steelers
GettyWill Howard led Ohio State to a national title before being drafted by the Steelers.
Here is what Rodgers had to say about being able to work with Howard this past season:
“Will, in general, I think has what it takes from a personality and a moxy standpoint, to have a long career in the league…I really wanted to pour into Will and make sure he knew that I cared about him.”
Pat McAfee
“Will Howard has what it takes to have a long career in the league..
I care about him and I want him to be successful”
@AaronRodgers12 #PMSLive
The fact that Rodgers, a future first-ballot Hall of Fame quarterback and one of the greatest of all time, is saying this is significant. It is also important to remember that Howard won at the highest level in college. Named an All-Big 12 and All-Big Ten performer in his career at both Kansas State and Ohio State, Howard’s college starting experience and championship hardware are proof that he can be great at the next level as he looks to potentially lead Pittsburgh forward.
Aaron Rodgers Could Be the Best Short-Term Option for the Steelers
Aaron Rodgers, Pittsburgh Steelers
GettyAaron Rodgers has not made a decision on whether or not he will return to the Steelers.
Despite Howard having the makings of a potentially solid quarterback for years to come in the Steel City, Rodgers is likely the better option in the near future for the Steelers. Despite playing on a fractured wrist for a chunk of his age-42 season, the four-time MVP was able to lead the Steelers to 10 wins and an AFC North title.
Furthermore, he recorded 25 total touchdowns and just seven interceptions. He finished the season ranked inside the top 10 of qualified quarterbacks in terms of completions (327) and interception rate (1.4%). While the former Packer might not be at the height of his powers like he once was, it appears as though he still can be an above-average NFL quarterback.
Also, the fact that his former head coach in Green Bay, Mike McCarthy, is now the head coach of the Steelers could help him return to a version of what he was during his early days along Lombardi Avenue. Remember, McCarthy helped Rodgers win two of his four MVPs in Green Bay (2011, 2014).
If Rodgers were to return for his 22nd NFL season and second in Pittsburgh, he would be able to help mentor Howard for at least one more season. With less than a week to go before the NFL’s free agency period officially kicks off, an answer for both Rodgers and the Steelers organization could be on the horizon.