Aaron Rodgers has been with the Pittsburgh Steelers for less than a week, but he’s already embracing a leadership role with his new team.
The 41-year-old has been making his presence felt at Steelers minicamp this week, both on the field and behind the scenes. He already appears impressed by rookie quarterback Will Howard, who’s made a good impression on him so far.
“Will’s a good kid. We’ve got to talk a little bit. I thought he did really well today,” Rodgers said during his Tuesday press conference. “He seems pretty bright. Not too big for him. Going through the progressions really well.”
Rodgers added that he plans on taking Howard under his wing and is looking forward to helping him grow this season.
“I’m gonna be with him every single day and every single meeting,” Rodgers said. “Found my seat next to him today in the offensive meeting, whether or not that sticks, right next to Will Howard. So, I’m gonna help him out as much as I can.”
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Howard, a sixth-round pick out of Ohio State, already boasts an impressive resume after leading the Buckeyes to a national championship last season. The 23-year-old is fortunate to have such an accomplished mentor in Rodgers — a Super Bowl champion and four-time NFL MVP.
Rodgers enjoyed a similar situation during his first few years with the Green Bay Packers, where he backed up Hall of Famer Brett Favre. Two decades later, now it’s his turn to mentor the next generation of quarterbacks and prepare to pass the baton.
With Rodgers on a one-year deal and nearing retirement, there’s a chance he may not be with Pittsburgh next year. Howard likely will be, however, so it’s important for him to learn as much as he can from Rodgers this season.
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Regardless of how Rodgers performs this year, the Steelers are fortunate to have one of the greatest quarterbacks ever in the building. Armed with 20 years of NFL experience under his belt, the 10-time Pro Bowler has a wealth of information and wisdom to share.
With Rodgers guiding and teaching Howard, he can help prepare the youngster for the NFL and potentially mold him into Pittsburgh’s next great quarterback.
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Featured image via Philip G. Pavely-Imagn Images