ST.Ben Roethlisberger Calls Will Howard ‘Tough and Gritty’-A Future Star for the Steelers. Howard didn’t attempt a regular-season pass as a rookie, but Roethlisberger nevertheless is high on the prospect.

Before it was learned that the Pittsburgh Steelers planned to speak with Mike McCarthy about their head-coaching vacancy, franchise legend Ben Roethlisberger made it known he was willing to assist team ownership in its search for a Mike Tomlin replacement. 

Roethlisberger also campaigned for the Steelers to “bring in a head coach that’s offensive-minded.” During the latest edition of his podcast, Roethlisberger expressed excitement over the thought of the Steelers possibly hiring McCarthy this winter. 

What Ben Roethlisberger likes about Mike McCarthy

“Mike McCarthy is an offensive-minded veteran coach, a guy that’s been there, done that,” Roethlisberger said, per Troy Montgomery of Steelers Depot. “He has Pittsburgh ties, so he understands the Steeler way and what it is to be a Steeler, and understands the Rooney family and how it works. Lot of respect for him…”

Some have suggested that the Steelers hiring McCarthy could result in 42-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers serving as a bridge option at the position for Pittsburgh next season. Rodgers previously played under McCarthy when they were with the Green Bay Packers from 2006 through the 2018 campaign. 

“The potential positive side to him coming in here would be the potential of Aaron Rodgers coming back,” Roethlisberger added about McCarthy. “…I truly love that pick. I like Mike McCarthy. I think he’s a great coach. I would love to play for him.”

It’s unknown if Rodgers wants to play for the Steelers or any other team next season, as some think he will soon retire. 

Ben Roethlisberger likes this quarterback for Steelers’ future

If Roethlisberger’s scenario played out, Rodgers would mentor 2025 sixth-round draft pick Will Howard for another year. Howard didn’t attempt a regular-season pass as a rookie, but Roethlisberger nevertheless is high on the prospect. 

“I love his heart, his fire,” Roethlisberger said about Howard during the podcast episode, per Jake Brockhoff of Steelers Depot. “I think he is Pittsburgh. I think he’s tough, he’s gritty, he’s going to get you what you want. …I think you should give Will Howard a shot for, like, two to three years.” 

Even if Steelers ownership follows Roethlisberger’s advice and hires McCarthy, there’s no guarantee Rodgers would sign up to play another season. It’s unknown who McCarthy and general manager Omar Khan would target to serve as Pittsburgh’s 2026 Week 1 QB1 if Rodgers isn’t an option. 

Indianapolis Colts Add Former RB with 14,488 Yards and 75 TDs to Coach Running Backs — A Bold Move to Reshape Their Future

In a groundbreaking move that has the Colts Nation buzzing, the Indianapolis Colts have officially appointed Matt Forte, one of the NFL’s greatest running backs, as their new Running Backs Coach.

This bold decision marks the start of a new era as the Colts aim to rebuild their offense under the leadership of head coach Shane Steichen.

Forte’s credentials as a player are unmatched.
Throughout his remarkable 10-year career, he amassed 14,488 total yards and 75 touchdowns, establishing himself as one of the most dynamic running backs of his generation.
A two-time Pro Bowler, Forte was a dual-threat who thrived as both a rusher and a receiver out of the backfield.
His ability to dominate in every phase of the game, combined with his high football IQ, made him a complete back and one of the league’s elite performers.

Although Forte enters the coaching world without prior experience, his extensive knowledge of the game and his respected legacy within the NFL make him the perfect candidate to guide the Colts’ running backs.
The Colts are making a bold statement by choosing a former player who understands the game at the highest level and embodies the values the team needs to rebuild.
This isn’t just a coaching hire; it’s a commitment to developing a new culture within the organization.

Forte’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for the Colts, as they look toward the 2026 NFL Draft, with eyes on securing a franchise quarterback to lead the team forward.
With the No. 1 pick in the draft and a chance to reshape their future, the Colts are focused on building a balanced offense that will bring them back into playoff contention.
With Forte coaching the running backs, the Colts now have a leader who can unlock the potential of their young players, creating a well-rounded attack.

As the Colts continue to rebuild, Forte’s leadership will be crucial in mentoring a new generation of running backs, helping them adapt to Steichen’s innovative offensive schemes.
His role will be to instill discipline, consistency, and professionalism, qualities that he displayed throughout his illustrious playing career.

With his deep understanding of the game and his passion for mentoring young talent, Matt Forte is poised to make an immediate impact on the Colts.
Fans can expect a revamped running game that will play a significant role in the team’s quest to return to prominence in the AFC South.

This hiring is just the beginning of the Colts’ rebuilding process.
With Forte in charge of the running backs, the team is signaling a renewed focus on excellence and growth.
The future of the Indianapolis Colts is bright, and with Matt Forte leading the charge, the team is set to rise again.