In a league where quarterback evaluations can define careers and reshape franchises, bold statements carry weight. Mike McCarthy has never been one to shy away from speaking his mind, but his latest comments about Will Howard have sparked widespread discussion across the NFL landscape.

According to McCarthy, Howard’s development—particularly his footwork—already surpasses what Ben Roethlisberger showed at a similar stage in his career. That comparison alone is enough to turn heads. Roethlisberger, after all, is one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in NFL history, a two-time Super Bowl champion whose toughness and playmaking ability defined an era for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Footwork may not always grab headlines, but it is one of the most critical components of quarterback play. Proper footwork directly impacts timing, accuracy, and decision-making. A quarterback with refined mechanics can navigate pressure more effectively, maintain balance in the pocket, and deliver consistent throws under challenging conditions. For McCarthy to highlight this aspect of Howard’s game suggests that he sees a strong technical foundation—something that can be built upon over time.

Will Howard’s journey has not followed the typical path of a highly touted quarterback prospect. Unlike first-round picks who enter the league with massive expectations, Howard has had to earn recognition through steady improvement and flashes of high-level performance. This under-the-radar development may actually work in his favor, allowing him to grow without the overwhelming pressure that often accompanies early-round selections.

McCarthy didn’t stop at mechanics. He went even further, describing Howard as “franchise material” and emphasizing that he possesses all the traits necessary to become a starting quarterback in the NFL. That includes physical tools like size and arm strength, as well as intangibles such as leadership, composure, and the ability to adapt.

Perhaps the most intriguing part of McCarthy’s statement is his belief that Howard would not have lasted into the sixth round if he had been in charge of last year’s draft. This comment speaks volumes about how differently teams can evaluate talent. The NFL Draft is far from an exact science, and history is filled with examples of players who outperformed their draft position. McCarthy’s perspective suggests that Howard may have been undervalued, overlooked in favor of more hyped prospects.

For the Pittsburgh Steelers, these comments could signal a shift in how the organization views its quarterback future. The Steelers have long been associated with stability at the position, thanks in large part to Roethlisberger’s extended tenure. Finding the next franchise quarterback is no small task, and it often requires a combination of patience, development, and a bit of risk-taking.

Howard’s potential emergence adds an interesting layer to that equation. If he can live up to the expectations outlined by McCarthy, the Steelers may have found a valuable asset without the need for a high draft pick. This would allow the team to allocate resources to other areas while still building around a capable quarterback.

Of course, comparisons to a player like Roethlisberger come with significant pressure. Fans will inevitably measure Howard’s progress against the legacy of a franchise icon, which can be both motivating and challenging. The key will be managing those expectations and allowing Howard to develop at his own pace.

Skepticism is also part of the conversation. While McCarthy’s praise is notable, it’s important to remember that projecting success in the NFL is never guaranteed. Many players show promise early in their careers but struggle to translate that potential into consistent performance at the professional level. Howard will need to prove himself on the field, where results ultimately matter more than projections.

Still, the excitement is understandable. The idea of discovering a franchise quarterback outside the early rounds of the draft is appealing for any team. It represents efficiency, value, and the possibility of building something special without the usual cost.

As training camps approach and opportunities arise, all eyes will be on Howard to see if he can validate the confidence placed in him. Every practice rep, every preseason snap, and every moment under pressure will contribute to shaping his trajectory.

McCarthy’s words have set the stage—but now it’s up to Howard to deliver.

And as the spotlight grows brighter, one question remains:

Is Will Howard truly the Steelers’ next franchise quarterback—or will these bold comparisons prove too much to live up to?