Mike McCarthy's latest Steelers decision could affect the future of Aaron Rodgers

The Pittsburgh Steelers are entering the 2026 NFL season with an unusually crowded quarterback room, and Mike McCarthy appears perfectly comfortable with it.

Pittsburgh finalized its 53-man roster by keeping Mason Rudolph, Will Howard and Drew Allar behind starter Aaron Rodgers , confirming what McCarthy had strongly hinted at after the preseason finale against Buffalo .

Asked whether all four quarterbacks had earned spots, McCarthy called that “a very accurate evaluation.”

“I feel good about the quarterback room,” McCarthy added. “I've been saying it for quite some time, and they've showed it on the field. We got two veterans that we can win with, and we got two young guys that we're excited about the future.”

The decision is notable because McCarthy has never previously carried four quarterbacks into Week 1 during his head-coaching career. It also reflects two competing priorities.

Pittsburgh needs a reliable veteran behind the 42-year-old Rodgers , which makes Rudolph an obvious insurance policy, but the Steelers also want enough time to develop both Howard and Allar without sacrificing either one.

Rudolph gives Steelers stability

Rudolph ’s preseason workload was limited, but his standing improved as Howard and Allar endured uneven performances over the final two games.

Howard threw multiple interceptions during the preseason, including one against Buffalo that immediately left him visibly frustrated. Allar, meanwhile, showed flashes but also struggled with consistency and pressure in his first NFL action.

Rudolph believes his experience and familiarity with the offense make him a natural fit behind Rodgers .

“I think I can execute all the same concepts,” Rudolph said. “I like a lot of the same concepts... I think I've had a good camp, and I like the way that the offense is evolving and trending.”

With Rodgers in the final stages of his career, Pittsburgh couldn't realistically enter the season with only developmental options behind him. That doesn't mean the Steelers are giving up on Howard or Allar .

Time to develop both young quarterbacks

Allar said the preseason gave him valuable experience even when the results were not perfect.

“I feel good about everything that I put on tape,” Allar said. “I think the biggest thing is, I have a lot of great mentors between players and coaches to learn from, from the things I've done well and also the mistakes I've had.”

McCarthy has repeatedly argued that carrying four quarterbacks can help rather than hinder development.

“I'd have six quarterbacks in a building if it worked,” he said. “I think that would be very healthy for the overall quarterback room with four quarterbacks.”

The Steelers also activated cornerback Joey Porter Jr. from the physically unable to perform list, avoiding a four-game absence, while safety DeShon Elliott was placed on injured reserve with a designation to return.

Still, the quarterback decision stands out most. Rodgers is the present. Rudolph is the safety net. Howard and Allar represent two different bets on what might come next.

Pittsburgh has chosen not to make that decision yet, and for the first time under McCarthy , all four will begin the season together.