The Steel City Insider: Setting realistic expectations for the Steelers QB room

Steel Curtain Network: A Pittsburgh Steelers podcast29mApril 4, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

In this Easter-themed episode of the Still City Insider podcast, hosts Jeremy Ritz and Jim Wexel dive into the Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback situation amid offseason speculation. They debunk rumors of Kirk Cousins joining the team, dismissing him as a non-starter, and instead focus on the developmental path of rookie Will Howard, the sixth-round pick. The hosts emphasize that while Howard has shown promise in mobility and decision-making during practice, he remains a work in progress with no guarantees of starting. They critique the media's growing hype around Howard, comparing it to past overhyped picks like Brock Purdy, and stress the importance of patience and process. The conversation also touches on Aaron Rodgers’ uncertain return, the potential for the Steelers to trade up in the draft for a playmaker—possibly Indiana’s Cooper—or address their long-standing need for a dominant inside linebacker. Beyond football, the episode explores deeper themes like fatherhood, intrinsic motivation, and personal growth, with a humorous nod to Ayahuasca and spiritual resets. Despite the lighthearted tone, the core message is clear: realistic expectations and trust in the coaching staff’s process are key.

Key Takeaways
1

Will Howard is a developmental prospect, not a guaranteed starter—focus on his growth, not hype.

2

The Steelers likely won’t draft a quarterback in the first round; they’re relying on internal development.

3

Aaron Rodgers’ potential return could significantly impact Howard’s development and the QB room.

4

The Steelers may trade up to 15 to select a wide receiver, with Cooper or Tyson as top targets.

5

Addressing the inside linebacker void remains a priority, with a need for a true impact player.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
1 min

Sponsor: Meinl Schmidt Distillery

A promotional segment for Meinl Schmidt Distillery, emphasizing whiskey as a catalyst for meaningful conversations and memories.

0:53
1 min

Easter & Good Friday Kickoff

Hosts welcome listeners with Easter greetings, sharing personal plans and setting a reflective tone for the episode.

2:00
3 min

Kirk Cousins Rumor Debunked

The hosts dismiss the idea of Kirk Cousins joining the Steelers, calling it a media fabrication with no real basis.

5:00
8 min

Will Howard: The Developmental Prospect

He's not a sixth rounder, in my opinion. That's what McCarthy's saying. That's all he's saying.

Highlight
12:30
6 min

Footwork & QB Development Process

Exploration of how footwork is foundational for quarterbacks and why it takes time to develop, with insights from McCarthy’s comments.

High-Impact Quotes
I really don't think NFL coaches are dumber than me. I really don't.
Jim Wexel16:21
Viral: 90.0
He's not a sixth rounder, in my opinion. That's what McCarthy's saying. That's all he's saying.
Jim Wexel15:34
Viral: 85.0
I'm not watching too much because I'm not a believer right now, but if the coach sees something, the coach knows a lot more than I do, you better love the guy.
Jim Wexel15:55
Viral: 82.0
Speakers

Hosts

Jeremy RitzJim Wexel
Topics Discussed
Steelers quarterback development95%Will Howard rookie evaluation90%Draft strategy and trade speculation85%Inside linebacker needs80%Media hype and overreaction75%Fatherhood and intrinsic motivation70%Aaron Rodgers' future with Steelers65%Spiritual and mental resets60%
People & Brands

Steelers

other

30xPositive

Jim Wexel

person

25xPositive

Jeremy Ritz

person

20xNeutral

Will Howard

person

18xPositive

Pittsburgh Steelers

other

15xPositive

Aaron Rodgers

person

10xPositive

Kirk Cousins

person

6xNegative

Ayahuasca

other

5xNeutral

Devin Bush

person

4xNegative

Mason Rudolph

person

4xNeutral

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