Mike McCarthy Outlines Path for Will Howard to Become Steelers Starter
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy has high expectations for second-year quarterback Will Howard, viewing him as a viable candidate to lead the offense. While McCarthy has praised Howard’s overall potential, he has identified a critical area of growth that will determine whether the former sixth-round pick can successfully transition into a full-time starter.
The Hurdle: Mastering the Pocket
Speaking at the annual league meeting, McCarthy revealed that the “biggest thing” Howard must improve is his ability to win from the pocket. According to McCarthy, the ability to navigate the pocket and execute the two-minute drill is essential, noting that statistics show approximately 9 to 10 games per year are decided during these high-pressure scenarios. McCarthy emphasized that winning from the pocket is a key area of growth for Howard, as he believes the young quarterback possesses almost every other necessary skill.
A significant portion of this development centers on Howard’s footwork. McCarthy suggested that Howard study Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers to understand how to use his feet to drive and zip the ball more effectively. This focus on the lower body is intended to help Howard avoid drifting from his landing spot and improve his overall ability to direct the football. Coaching efforts will prioritize refining these navigation skills as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
Overcoming a Challenging Start
Howard’s journey in Pittsburgh hasn’t been without obstacles. Despite being viewed by McCarthy as a better prospect than his sixth-round draft position suggested, Howard missed significant practice time during his first training camp due to injury. McCarthy’s bold praise for Howard persists despite these early setbacks, and the head coach remains optimistic about the quarterback’s trajectory.
Steelers’ Broader Quarterback Strategy
While McCarthy sees potential in Howard, he is also mapping out the roster for the 2026 NFL Draft. The head coach expressed interest in adding another young arm in the middle rounds, specifically seeking players with physical traits suited for Pittsburgh’s cold December weather. McCarthy pointed to the long arms and large hands of Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers as the gold standard for winning playoff games in harsh conditions. The Steelers have identified several prospects who fit this physical profile, including:
- Carson Beck (Miami): 6-foot-5, 233 lbs, 30 5/8-inch arms, 10-inch hands.
- Drew Allar (Penn State): 6-foot-5, 228 lbs, 32 3/4-inch arms, 9 7/8-inch hands.
- Cole Payton (North Dakota State): 6-foot-3, 232 lbs, 31 5/8-inch arms, 10 1/4-inch hands.
- Taylen Green (Arkansas): 6-foot-6, 227 lbs, 34 3/4-inch arms, 9 7/8-inch hands.
- Primary Goal: Improve pocket presence and footwork to better drive the ball.
- Critical Skill: Master the two-minute drill to impact game outcomes.
- Blueprint: Study the footwork and mechanics of Aaron Rodgers.
- Status: Identified as a viable starting candidate despite being a sixth-round pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main area Will Howard needs to improve?
According to Mike McCarthy, Howard needs to improve his footwork and his ability to win from the pocket, specifically regarding his ability to drive the ball and execute the two-minute drill.
Why is Mike McCarthy looking for a quarterback with long arms and large hands?
McCarthy believes these physical traits are advantageous for throwing the ball effectively in cold weather, which is crucial for winning games in December and the playoffs in Pittsburgh.
What is Will Howard’s current standing on the Steelers roster?
Howard is a second-year quarterback and a former sixth-round pick who has been identified by Mike McCarthy as a viable candidate for the starting position.
Conclusion
Will Howard possesses the raw tools that have earned the confidence of Mike McCarthy, but his path to a starting role depends on his technical growth. As training camp approaches, the focus will remain on his feet and his ability to command the pocket. Whether Howard secures the job or the Steelers add another arm in the 2026 draft, the organization is clearly prioritizing a quarterback capable of enduring the physical and environmental demands of the AFC North.