Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy stated he plans to keep three quarterbacks on the 53-man roster and possibly a fourth on the practice squad. Speaking after voluntary minicamp on April 21, 2026, at UPMC Rooney Sports Complex, McCarthy said Will Howard and Mason Rudolph have been splitting first-team reps amid uncertainty over Aaron Rodgers' future. He also praised the team's defensive line, running back Rico Dowdle and wide receiver DK Metcalf.
McCarthy expressed his preference during a media availability on Tuesday. 'I believe in having three [quarterbacks],' he said. 'I’ve been two just a few times in my life, but it was Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers, so that’s a luxury.' He noted the Steelers have historically kept three under previous coach Mike Tomlin, with Howard and Rudolph currently sharing reps while Rodgers decides on re-signing. McCarthy added that Howard has shown improved conditioning and footwork in the early offseason work. The coach was impressed with the defensive line, calling it the biggest he has coached and highlighting their positional flexibility. 'They look exactly how you’re supposed to look,' McCarthy said on the team's Twitter. He extended similar praise to the offensive line for their veteran presence and versatility. McCarthy highlighted running back Rico Dowdle, a recent free-agent signing who previously played under him in Dallas. 'Four-down player, Rico... He’s wicked smart, protections, he’s an excellent third-down back,' he said, noting Dowdle pairs well with Jaylen Warren. For wide receiver DK Metcalf, McCarthy said, 'His skill set is top-notch,' emphasizing plans to utilize his power on various routes and positions.
