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Cam Heyward expects 'battle' between Will Howard and Mason Rudolph to become Aaron Rodgers' successor
TL;DR
Cam Heyward emphasizes the competition between Will Howard and Mason Rudolph for the role of Aaron Rodgers' successor. While Howard is generating excitement, Heyward highlights Rudolph's experience and contributions to the team.
Key points
- Cam Heyward comments on Steelers' quarterback competition
- Will Howard is generating excitement among fans
- Mason Rudolph has NFL experience and has stepped up in key moments
- Coach Mike McCarthy praises Howard's potential
Pittsburgh Steelers
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While Steelers fans are anxious to see what Will Howard can do, Pittsburgh veteran defensive tackle Cam Heyward would like to remind everyone that Pittsburgh still has a veteran quarterback with NFL experience on the roster that's not named Aaron Rodgers.
There's been considerable hype surrounding Howard since he was drafted by the Steelers in the sixth round of last year's draft, hype that was elevated when Pittsburgh coach Mike McCarthy raved about Howard's potential during his introductory press conference. And while Howard could very well become Rodgers' heir apparent, Heyward doesn't think that that is a foregone conclusion.
"I'd be remiss if I didn't mention Mason Rudolph," said Heyward, who spoke with CBS Sports via USAA. "I think both of those guys, they give us a leg up in different ways. Mason has earned his spot. Went to Tennessee (for the 2024 season), came back, and when Mason's had to step up, he's stepped up in those moments.
"With Will, I think there's a lot of intrigue there because he didn't play his rookie year. He didn't get as many reps as he wanted to, but when he got those reps, he made the most of them, especially in practice. He was always trying to compete against the ones, and when you watch his pedigree of winning a national championship at Ohio State, you're like, 'Man, what can he do at the next level?'
"So, we'll see. I know we'll have a little bit of battle there. You never know who's going to be the third quarterback to round out that group."
As Heyward alluded to, Howard has never taken live reps in an NFL game after he sustained an injury during the early portion of training camp last summer that prevented him from playing in the preseason. Conversely, Rudolph has played in countless preseason games and 34 regular-season games over his career, which spans back to the 2018 season. Rudolph has made 19 starts in the regular season and in 2023 became Pittsburgh's first quarterback to start in a postseason game in the post era.
Q&A
What did Cam Heyward say about Will Howard and Mason Rudolph?
Cam Heyward noted that both Will Howard and Mason Rudolph are competing for the role of Aaron Rodgers' successor, emphasizing Rudolph's experience and contributions.
How has Will Howard performed since being drafted by the Steelers?
Will Howard has generated considerable hype since being drafted in the sixth round last year, with coach Mike McCarthy praising his potential.
What is Mason Rudolph's experience with the Steelers?
Mason Rudolph has NFL experience and has proven himself in critical moments, earning his spot on the team despite the competition.
What are the expectations for the Steelers' quarterback competition?
Expectations are high for the quarterback competition between Will Howard and Mason Rudolph, with fans eager to see who will succeed Aaron Rodgers.
