The Pittsburgh Steelers will keep both Will Howard and Drew Allar on their 53-player roster to open the 2026 season, according to a report from NBC Sports. The decision ends weeks of speculation about the team's quarterback room and solidifies a long-term plan at the position.

Steelers Commit to Two Young Quarterbacks

NBC Sports reported Tuesday that the Steelers have informed both Howard and Allar they will make the final roster. Howard, a rookie from Ohio State, and Allar, a second-year player from Penn State, have competed throughout training camp. The team's coaching staff sees value in developing both players behind a veteran presence.

Head coach Mike Tomlin said in a press conference that the competition brought out the best in both quarterbacks. "They pushed each other every day," Tomlin said. "We believe both have the potential to lead this franchise in the future."

The report indicates the Steelers will carry three quarterbacks on the active roster. That means the team will sacrifice depth at another position to keep both young passers. General manager Omar Khan defended the move, saying the quarterback position is too important to rush.

Mason Rudolph's Role Solidified

According to the NBC Sports report, Mason Rudolph is the second-best quarterback on the Steelers' roster. Rudolph, who re-signed with Pittsburgh in 2025, will serve as the primary backup to starter Justin Fields. The report states that Rudolph's experience and command of the offense give him a clear edge over the younger players for now.

Rudolph has started 13 games for the Steelers over his career, including a playoff appearance in 2023. His familiarity with offensive coordinator Arthur Smith's system makes him a reliable option if Fields misses time. The report notes that Rudolph's role is not in question despite the team's investment in Howard and Allar.

Quarterbacks coach Mike Sullivan praised Rudolph's professionalism. "Mason is a pro's pro," Sullivan said. "He helps the young guys every day, and we trust him completely."

Implications for the Roster

Keeping three quarterbacks means the Steelers will likely cut a player at another position. The report suggests the team may keep only three running backs or four wide receivers to accommodate the extra quarterback. Special teams contributors could also be affected.

Analysts have debated whether carrying three quarterbacks is wise in a salary cap era. But the Steelers have historically valued stability at the position. The report points out that Pittsburgh drafted Howard in the third round and Allar in the second round of the 2025 draft. Both players have shown enough promise to warrant roster spots.

Howard impressed during preseason with his mobility and arm strength. Allar, who spent his rookie year on the practice squad, has improved his footwork and decision-making. The coaching staff believes both can develop into starters within two years.

The decision also sends a message to the locker room. The Steelers are prioritizing long-term success over short-term roster flexibility. The report quotes an unnamed team source saying, "We are building something sustainable."

Fans in Pittsburgh have reacted positively to the news. Many believe the team is finally addressing the quarterback position with a clear plan. The Steelers have not had a franchise quarterback since Ben Roethlisberger retired in 2022. Justin Fields, acquired in a trade with Chicago, has played well but has not yet signed a long-term extension.

The NBC Sports report also notes that the Steelers will continue to evaluate the quarterback market. If Fields struggles early in the season, the team could turn to Rudolph or even give one of the young players a chance. But for now, the roster is set.

Training camp concludes this week, and the Steelers will finalize their 53-man roster by Saturday. The team opens the regular season on September 10 against the Baltimore Ravens. All eyes will be on the quarterback room as the season unfolds.