The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing critical decisions regarding their quarterback lineup this offseason. With Aaron Rodgers set to retire after the 2026 season, the team must determine if his successor is already on their roster.

Pittsburgh is assessing two quarterbacks, rookie Drew Allar, a third-round pick, and Will Howard, a sixth-round pick from 2025. Both players might become the starter in 2027.

Allar impressed many with his performance in his preseason debut. He completed 10 of 13 passes, accumulating 153 yards and two touchdowns, and even added a rushing touchdown. However, his subsequent performance was less impressive, completing 11 out of 23 passes for 110 yards.

Meanwhile, Howard has not stood out significantly. Over two games, he completed 17 of 24 passes for 160 yards and threw two interceptions.

Based on preseason performances, Allar seems to have an advantage. However, Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that performance might not be the main factor. Both Allar and Howard, along with Mason Rudolph, are expected to make the 53-man roster.

There will be one more preseason game to determine how many quarterbacks Steelers coach Mike McCarthy will keep on his 53-man roster. But he doesn’t need another game to know this: Will Howard and Drew Allar will be on the team, Dulac reported. That decision was reached even before Friday night’s 17-0 preseason loss against the New York Jets, team sources told the Post-Gazette.

The Steelers plan to keep both quarterbacks despite their inconsistent performances, as their future potential is significant. Veteran Mason Rudolph is also part of the squad, with a record of 9-9-1 over six seasons, but he is not seen as a future starting quarterback.

Looking ahead, Allar and Howard will compete with a potential 2027 draft pick for the starting position Rodgers will vacate. The team aims to secure a capable successor to lead the franchise.