The Pittsburgh Steelers face a quarterback conundrum with four viable candidates: Mason Rudolph, Will Howard, Drew Allar, and Aaron Rodgers. While half the NFL opts for two quarterbacks, Pittsburgh is likely to retain three, creating questions about who might be cut. As the offseason progresses, the team shows no urgency in making a decision, understanding that injuries and performance will heavily influence the final roster. The Steelers have more than four months before their cutdown date in August, allowing ample time for evaluations and developments.

By the Numbers
  • Pittsburgh typically holds three quarterbacks on the roster.
  • Allar is a third-round rookie, and the Steelers haven't cut a rookie quarterback in 50 years.
Yes, But

Despite the strong presence of Rudolph as an experienced backup, the evolving roles of Howard and Allar complicate the situation. Some view Howard’s recent praise as mere smoke and mirrors, while others, including Chris Simms, hint at the possibility of Allar being cut—a dramatic turn for a recent draft pick.

State of Play
  • Performance in preseason will determine further quarterback positioning.
  • Injuries, like those experienced in 2025, could drastically reshape the scenario.
  • Allar is expected to be a gameday inactive, focusing on learning rather than immediate impact.
What's Next

The Steelers will continue to assess their quarterbacks over the offseason, monitoring health and performance, especially in preseason games. Decisions are likely to solidify closer to the cutdown date, influenced by not only individual performances but also by injuries that may arise.

Bottom Line

With plenty of time to evaluate their quarterback situation, the Steelers will rely on patience and thorough assessments to guide their decision-making, ensuring they make the best choice for the franchise’s future. The dynamics of this competition will unfold gradually, with perceptions shifting as players prove themselves in early training sessions and games.