Steelers Quarterbacks Today: Rudolph, Howard, and Allar Spark Preseason Win

Under the glowing floodlights at Acrisure Stadium, Pittsburgh's quarterback rotation delivered an explosive display of efficiency from start to finish. Veteran Mason Rudolph set the tempo early before young passers Will Howard and Drew Allar took over, steering the Pittsburgh Steelers to a commanding 28-9 preseason victory over the Green Bay Packers. The collective performance gave new head coach Mike McCarthy an encouraging first look at the depth behind starter Aaron Rodgers.

The Story at a Glance

With Aaron Rodgers sitting out the exhibition contest, Pittsburgh showcased three quarterbacks across four quarters. Veteran Mason Rudolph, second-year passer Will Howard, and rookie Drew Allar combined to complete 27 of 33 passes (81.8%) for 332 yards, two passing touchdowns, and zero interceptions, achieving a collective passer rating of 128.8. The crisp offensive execution demonstrated why team leadership is leaning toward keeping four quarterbacks on the initial 53-man roster.

How the Story Developed

Rudolph opened the contest with sharp rhythm, orchestrating two drives while completing 10 of 11 passes for 93 yards. His steady ball distribution established field position before Howard entered for the next three series.

Howard, 24, who missed the entire 2025 preseason due to a fractured pinky finger and spent time on injured reserve, stepped up with 7 completions on 9 attempts for 86 yards. His outing was highlighted by an efficient two-minute touchdown drive directly before halftime to widen the lead.

Allar entered midway through the third quarter for the final four possessions. Playing his first competitive action since suffering a season-ending broken ankle at Penn State in October, the third-round draft selection ignited the stadium immediately. His very first professional throw resulted in a 74-yard catch-and-run to fourth-round rookie wideout Kaden Wetjen.

Key People and Details

Allar finished the evening with 10 completions on 13 attempts for 153 yards, two passing touchdowns, and a 1-yard rushing score, posting a standout 154.8 passer rating. His production earned him the Steelers Digest Player of the Week award.

Key contributors across the roster supported the quarterback unit throughout the win:

• Kaden Wetjen: Hauled in 2 receptions for 79 yards and a touchdown while adding 61 kickoff return yards and 10 punt return yards.
• Riley Nowakowski: Drafted in the fifth round out of Indiana, the rookie caught a 4-yard touchdown pass from Allar late in the game.
• Jamin Davis: Led the defense with 8 tackles, 2 sacks, and 3 quarterback hits.
• Trey Smack: Supplied all of Green Bay's scoring by converting three field goals, including a 58-yarder.

Reaction and Response

Head coach Mike McCarthy voiced clear satisfaction with the poise and huddle command displayed by all three signal-callers.

I thought, as far as the way they took the play, commanded the huddle. ... I thought they were very poised. I liked the way all three of them played, especially our young guys.

What to Watch

With Aaron Rodgers slated to retire after the upcoming season, the backup battle carries long-term franchise implications. Observers will monitor how repetitions are divided between Rudolph, Howard, and Allar over the remainder of the preseason schedule as roster cutdowns approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Mason Rudolph perform against the Packers?

Rudolph started the game and led two drives, completing 10 of 11 passes for 93 yards without any turnovers.

What were Drew Allar's final statistics in his debut?

Allar completed 10 of 13 attempts for 153 yards, two passing touchdowns, one rushing touchdown, and zero interceptions.

Why didn't Aaron Rodgers play in the preseason matchup?

Veteran starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers was rested for the opening preseason contest, allowing the coaching staff to evaluate the backup quarterbacks.

Who caught touchdown passes for Pittsburgh?

Rookies Kaden Wetjen and Riley Nowakowski both caught second-half touchdown passes thrown by Drew Allar.