Pittsburgh may have drafted Will Howard for his size, mobility, and raw upside — but the Steelers are now witnessing a transformation far beyond anything they projected. And the biggest reason behind that growth is a source no one expected: Aaron Rodgers’ voice inside Howard’s head.
No, not literally. But according to the rookie quarterback, the impact Rodgers has made on his development is so powerful that he now “hears” the four-time MVP’s advice mid-decision during practice reps.
Howard opened up about the surreal mentorship this week, saying Rodgers has been teaching him the kinds of nuances that separate ordinary quarterbacks from the rare ones.
“There are moments when I’ll make a read and instantly think of something Aaron told me,” Howard said. “It’s like he’s right there reminding me how to slow the game, look off a safety, or trust the instinct you can’t always explain.”
Rodgers, long known for his mastery of manipulating defenders, has been giving Howard private guidance on eye discipline, pocket timing, and how to disguise intentions before the snap — tools most rookies take years to understand.
A Steelers staff member revealed that the difference is already visible.
“He’s processing faster. He’s calmer. You can see Rodgers’ fingerprints all over his decision-making.”
For Pittsburgh, this mentorship is a gift they never anticipated. The organization expected Howard to grow gradually behind veteran leadership. Instead, he’s absorbing elite-level quarterback wisdom directly from one of the most technically brilliant players the position has ever seen.
Inside the facility, coaches have begun quietly acknowledging that Howard looks “further ahead than expected.” Some even believe Rodgers’ influence could accelerate his readiness dramatically.
And for a franchise hungry for stability at quarterback, the idea that Will Howard is evolving with Rodgers-level insight is electrifying Steelers Nation.
One thing is clear:
This isn’t the growth Pittsburgh planned for — it’s something much bigger.
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