Will Howard, QB (PIT)

Not playing Thursday

Howard (hand) isn't suited up for Thursday's preseason contest at Carolina, Alan Saunders of SteelersNow.com reports.

Howard sustained a broken small bone in his right hand in practice on Aug. 5 and missed the Steelers' first two exhibitions as a result. Thursday's absence will make it a third in a row, meaning the rookie sixth-round pick likely is destined to kick off the campaign as the team's No. 3 QB behind Aaron Rodgers and Mason Rudolph.

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Mason Rudolph

Mason Rudolph

QB PIT

Out of 2026 starting mix

Rudolph will be relegated to a backup role again in 2026, as Aaron Rodgers signed a one-year contract with the Steelers on Monday.

Aaron Rodgers

Aaron Rodgers

QB PIT

Slated to return to Pittsburgh

Rodgers and the Steelers are expected to agree on a one-year contract, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports. The deal will be worth up to $25 million, according to Schefter.