PITTSBURGH, Pa. — Aaron Rodgers has spent the entire 2025 season in Pittsburgh not just as the Steelers’ star quarterback but as a mentor, guiding rookie signal-caller Will Howard through the transition to the NFL. Rodgers, a future Hall of Famer with decades of experience, says his focus has been on preparing Howard for long-term success, emphasizing fundamentals, decision-making, and leadership at the most demanding position in football.
“I’ve really tried to do everything I can to help Will,” Rodgers told reporters after Wednesday’s practice. “He’s a talented young quarterback with a bright future, and my job this year has been to help him get acclimated to the league, the playbook, and the speed of the game.”
Howard, a second-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft out of Illinois State, has impressed coaches and teammates alike with his work ethic and adaptability. Though he has had limited in-game experience this season, his practice habits have already drawn praise from veterans. Rodgers, in particular, has been instrumental in shaping Howard’s understanding of reading defenses, pre-snap adjustments, and pocket awareness — skills critical to the success of any quarterback in the NFL.
The Steelers brought Rodgers to Pittsburgh this year not only for his ability to win games immediately but also to serve as a bridge to the team’s future. Howard’s development is central to the organization’s long-term planning. In practice sessions, Rodgers has consistently taken the time to break down film with the rookie, discuss reads, and simulate game-speed situations, often staying after team meetings to provide one-on-one guidance.
Rodgers described Howard as a “quick learner” with “the mental toughness and poise” necessary to succeed at the highest level. “He asks good questions, he’s receptive to feedback, and he’s not afraid to make mistakes and learn from them. That’s what sets the foundation for a long career,” Rodgers said.
Howard’s own reflections echo Rodgers’ praise. “Having Aaron here has been incredible,” he said. “He’s not just teaching me plays; he’s teaching me how to think like a quarterback in this league. Every day I learn something new, and it’s helping me get more comfortable and confident.”
The mentorship relationship goes beyond the X’s and O’s. Rodgers has also emphasized the importance of leadership and maintaining composure under pressure — qualities that define elite quarterbacks. For a young player like Howard, seeing a veteran handle the highs and lows of a long NFL season firsthand is invaluable.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has expressed satisfaction with how Rodgers has embraced the mentorship role. “Aaron has been phenomenal with Will,” Tomlin said. “He’s not just executing on the field; he’s teaching, guiding, and creating an environment where Will can grow. That’s a rare quality, and it’s exactly what we hoped for when we brought him here.”
Despite being a rookie, Howard has also shown flashes of promise in games. While Rodgers continues to start at quarterback, Howard has rotated in during select series, giving him valuable live-game reps without exposing him to undue risk. The plan is to continue gradually increasing his responsibilities as the season progresses, allowing him to build confidence while learning from one of the game’s best.
Analysts have noted that young quarterbacks benefit tremendously from mentorship by elite veterans. Rodgers’ track record of success, combined with his willingness to coach, offers Howard a unique opportunity to accelerate his learning curve. Unlike many rookies who struggle with the transition to the NFL, Howard has a seasoned guide by his side, helping him navigate both the mental and physical challenges of the professional game.
Rodgers also emphasized the importance of patience. “It’s not about rushing Will onto the field or forcing him into situations he’s not ready for. It’s about steady growth, building his knowledge, and making sure he’s prepared to make the right decisions when the time comes,” Rodgers said.
The Steelers’ fan base has embraced the mentorship dynamic between Rodgers and Howard, seeing it as a critical step toward sustained success. Social media has lit up with praise for both players, highlighting Rodgers’ willingness to invest in the future and Howard’s dedication to learning.
Looking ahead, the organization envisions Howard as the quarterback of the future in Pittsburgh. With Rodgers mentoring him this season, the transition when Howard eventually takes the reins could be smoother than most rookie quarterback experiences in the NFL. The combination of Rodgers’ guidance, Howard’s work ethic, and the team’s supportive environment sets the stage for a potentially bright future at the quarterback position.
“This experience is invaluable,” Howard said. “Aaron has been patient, insightful, and supportive every step of the way. I feel like I’m growing every day, and I’m excited about what the future holds.”
For Rodgers, the satisfaction comes not just from winning games but from helping shape the next generation of quarterbacks. “Seeing Will improve, gain confidence, and take steps toward becoming a starter — that’s what makes this role so rewarding. He has a bright future ahead, and I’m grateful to be part of it,” Rodgers concluded.
As the Steelers continue their 2025 campaign, all eyes will remain on both the veteran and the rookie. Rodgers’ leadership and mentorship may prove as important as any single game-winning drive, setting the foundation for sustained success in Pittsburgh for years to come.
Updates from Steelers’ training facilities in Pittsburgh will continue throughout the season.
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