Following a preseason triumph against the Green Bay Packers, Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike McCarthy shared his observations regarding quarterback Will Howard's play. Despite the team's 28-9 win, McCarthy's remarks hinted at a critical assessment of Howard's on-field decisions, particularly concerning missed chances. This evaluation is significant as the Steelers navigate their quarterback roster, specifically the competition for the third-string spot, which also involves rookie Drew Allar, who delivered a standout performance against Green Bay's reserve unit. The coach's comments underscore the scrutiny applied to players during these early exhibition games as they vie for a place on the final 53-man roster.
During the training camp period, considerable discussion revolved around the contest for the QB3 position between Will Howard and Drew Allar. The recent game provided the coaching staff with tangible gameplay footage to analyze. Head Coach Mike McCarthy's post-game commentary indicated that the visual evidence might not entirely favor Howard's display. While the Steelers chose to rest their primary quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, the Packers' signal-caller, Jordan Love, managed only 18 yards from three completions. Pittsburgh's second-string quarterback, Mason Rudolph, exhibited efficiency with 93 yards and only one incomplete pass out of eleven attempts.
Will Howard, a second-year quarterback from Ohio State, completed seven of nine passes for a total of 86 yards. However, in his postgame press conference, McCarthy drew a comparison between Howard and Allar, noting that Howard had encountered "peaks and valleys" and failed to capitalize on certain situations. McCarthy did commend Howard's composure, particularly during the two-minute drill, which he described as "excellent." He also mentioned considering giving Allar a two-minute drill but prioritized player health in the late stages of the game. Overall, McCarthy expressed satisfaction with the performances of all three quarterbacks present that evening.
Drew Allar, a third-round draft pick from Penn State, emerged as a notable performer. He completed ten of thirteen passes for 153 yards and threw two touchdowns. Allar also contributed with a three-yard touchdown run, which occurred shortly after a 74-yard pass to fellow rookie wide receiver Kaden Wetjen in the third quarter. It is important to consider that Allar's impressive statistics largely came against the Packers' reserve players in the second half, with both of his touchdown passes occurring in the fourth quarter. While Allar successfully executed the throws, the level of competition in the latter part of a preseason game differs significantly from that of the regular season.
McCarthy's observations regarding Howard are particularly noteworthy. The head coach identified aspects of Howard's game that the 2025 sixth-round pick will need to refine to secure a spot on the 53-man roster. The Steelers are scheduled to host the New York Jets for their second preseason game on August 21, providing another opportunity for these quarterbacks to demonstrate their capabilities and address the areas highlighted by the coaching staff.
In summary, the Steelers' recent preseason game against the Green Bay Packers brought the ongoing quarterback competition into sharper focus. Head Coach Mike McCarthy's detailed comments on Will Howard's performance, emphasizing both his strengths in composure and areas needing improvement, highlight the meticulous evaluation process taking place. The contrasting, yet strong, showing by rookie Drew Allar against less experienced opposition further complicates the decision-making for the coaching staff as they prepare for the upcoming season. These preseason contests serve as crucial proving grounds for players striving to solidify their positions within the team.
