The Pittsburgh Steelers’ New Head Coach

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a significant move by planning to hire Mike McCarthy as their next head coach. McCarthy is best known for his tenure with the Green Bay Packers, where he led the team to a Super Bowl victory against the Steelers in Super Bowl XLV. His career has also included a five-year stint with the Dallas Cowboys.

One of the most intriguing aspects of McCarthy’s potential arrival in Pittsburgh is his connection with Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers played under McCarthy in Green Bay from 2006 until his departure in 2018. During that time, Rodgers won two of his four MVP awards and helped the Packers reach the postseason nine times, winning at least one playoff game in six of those appearances.

The partnership between McCarthy and Rodgers defined an era in Green Bay, leading to sustained regular-season success and a Super Bowl title that solidified their legacy as one of the league’s most productive coaching-quarterback duos. Although McCarthy’s exit from Green Bay was not without controversy, the possibility of a reunion with Rodgers remains a compelling storyline.

A Possible Return for Aaron Rodgers

Despite Rodgers’ initial decision to join the Steelers to play for Mike Tomlin, the familiarity and past success between him and McCarthy could make a return appealing. On NFL GameDay Morning, Tom Pelissero noted that while the hiring of McCarthy wasn’t primarily aimed at luring Rodgers back, it’s clear that the possibility exists.

“If there is one head coach that Aaron Rodgers would play for again, it is McCarthy who he won that Super Bowl with in Green Bay,” Pelissero said. The Steelers have not ruled out the chance of Rodgers returning, with team president Art Rooney II expressing openness to welcoming Rodgers back if he decides to do so.

If Rodgers does return, it wouldn’t just be about nostalgia. Pittsburgh offers a roster that still believes in its ability to win now, and adding a familiar voice like McCarthy could provide immediate comfort. For Rodgers, stability might be more appealing than chasing something entirely new. However, the Steelers are not placing all their hopes on Rodgers and will continue to explore other quarterback options.

Will Howard: A Potential Star in the Making

While the possibility of bringing back Rodgers is on the table, McCarthy has shown a strong interest in Will Howard. This interest is notable, especially coming from a coach who has worked with elite quarterbacks throughout his career. The Steelers drafted Howard in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, and although he didn’t play a single snap in 2025, many believe he has massive potential.

Howard’s physical tools, arm strength, and success at the collegiate level at Kansas State and Ohio State have fueled optimism about his future. McCarthy, often referred to as a “quarterback whisperer,” may see potential in giving Howard a real opportunity in 2026. This move could provide clarity for the franchise while maintaining long-term flexibility, especially with an expected quarterback-heavy draft class in 2027.

Looking Ahead

As the offseason progresses, the storyline surrounding McCarthy, Rodgers, and Howard is unlikely to fade. The Steelers have made a bold move by hiring McCarthy, and the implications of this decision are far-reaching. Whether it leads to a Rodgers reunion or a breakthrough for Howard, the upcoming season promises to be filled with exciting developments.