Steelers QB Will Howard gets Week 1 nod over Drew Allar from NFL Draft expert

With Aaron Rodgers’ status for the 2026 season still uncertain, the Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing for a developing quarterback competition, as early discussion centers on whether Will Howard or rookie Drew Allar gives the team its best option to open the year.

Howard, entering his second season in the NFL, has gained traction during offseason work because of his familiarity with the system and the development time he has logged with the team so far. This experience gives him an early advantage as the Steelers evaluate their options under center.

Allar, selected in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft with the No. 76 overall pick, brings clear upside and long-term appeal. However, his transition to the NFL will require patience as he adjusts to the speed, terminology, and structure of a professional offense.

The debate gained momentum when NFL on ESPN shared a clip on X, formerly Twitter, featuring ESPN’s Matt Miller discussing the situation and offering a clear early stance.

“If you had to play one, I think it would be Will Howard. … Will Howard has proven a lot of critics, myself included, wrong.”

"If you had to play one, I think it would be Will Howard. … Will Howard has proven a lot of critics, myself included, wrong."

—@nfldraftscout on who he thinks should be the Steelers' Week 1 starter pic.twitter.com/qyqnLFYm7s

— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) April 29, 2026

Miller’s comments reflect growing confidence in Howard’s readiness. His acknowledgment that Howard has exceeded expectations aligns with the idea that Pittsburgh may value system comfort and early consistency as it sorts through the competition.

That belief could influence how the depth chart develops over the coming months. While the Steelers have not named a starter, Howard has positioned himself as a legitimate candidate to begin the season under center.

Allar, meanwhile, remains an important part of the franchise’s future. Pittsburgh invested meaningful draft capital in him, signaling confidence in his long-term potential. Still, early performance, command of the offense, and practice consistency often shape initial roster decisions.

The team faces an important evaluation period before Week 1, especially with Rodgers’ status still undecided. If Howard maintains his momentum, he could open the season as the starter—an outcome that would be unexpected—while Allar’s presence ensures the competition remains active as Pittsburgh shapes both its immediate plan and long-term quarterback outlook.

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