Steelers Discuss QB Will Howard's Projected Success

Steelers Afternoon Drive podcast analyzes expectations for Steelers' 2023 draft pick

Feb. 20, 2026 at 11:08pm

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In the latest episode of the Steelers Afternoon Drive podcast, hosts Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith discuss what a reasonable expectation is for Steelers quarterback Will Howard and how the hype around him has escalated, given the team's investment. They also cover comments made by new head coach Mike McCarthy on topics like returning to the team's traditional training camp location.

Why it matters

The Steelers' 2023 draft pick at quarterback, Will Howard, has generated significant buzz, and the team's new coaching staff will be tasked with managing expectations and developing him effectively. Analyzing these projections and comments from the team's leadership provides insight into the Steelers' plans at the quarterback position.

The details

On the podcast, Saunders and Smith discuss how the Steelers' investment in Howard, including the draft capital used to select him, has led to heightened expectations for the young quarterback. They analyze what historical data suggests about the most likely outcomes for Howard's future success, cautioning against the 'hype' that has built around him. The hosts also cover comments made by new Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy, who spoke about landing the job at his age, his relationship with former Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, and the potential return to the team's traditional training camp location at Saint Vincent College.

  • The Steelers Afternoon Drive podcast was published on February 20, 2026.

The players

Will Howard

The Steelers' 2023 draft pick at quarterback, whose projected success and development has been a major topic of discussion for the team.

Mike McCarthy

The new head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who recently commented on topics like his age, his relationship with former Packers QB Aaron Rodgers, and the team's training camp location.

Alan Saunders

Co-host of the Steelers Afternoon Drive podcast, where the discussion about Will Howard and Mike McCarthy's comments took place.

Zachary Smith

Co-host of the Steelers Afternoon Drive podcast, where the discussion about Will Howard and Mike McCarthy's comments took place.

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What they’re saying

“What is the most likely outcome?”

— Alan Saunders, Co-host (Steelers Afternoon Drive)

“We also discuss what Mike McCarthy had to say about landing the position at his age, Aaron Rodges and the idea of the team returning to Saint Vincent College for training camp.”

— Zachary Smith, Co-host (Steelers Afternoon Drive)

What’s next

The Steelers will continue to monitor Will Howard's development and progress as he enters his rookie season, with the new coaching staff led by Mike McCarthy tasked with managing expectations and preparing him for success.

The takeaway

The Steelers' investment in quarterback Will Howard has generated significant hype, but the team's new coaching staff, led by Mike McCarthy, will need to carefully manage expectations and ensure Howard's effective development, drawing on historical data to set realistic projections for the young QB's future success.