Aaron Rodgers' offseason bonding trip with Pittsburgh Steelers teammates raised eyebrows after one key player was conspicuously absent. The veteran quarterback posted photos on Instagram showing him with receivers DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr., and others, but backup QB Will Howard was missing from the group.
What happened at the retreat?
Rodgers shared images of the team enjoying outdoor activities like horseback riding and paddleboarding on July 14, 2026. The group included Mason Rudolph, another QB contender, along with receivers Ben Skowronek and Roman Wilson. However, Howard, a sixth-round draft pick, wasn't part of the gathering.
Why does this matter for the QB2 race?
Howard's absence is notable given his competition with Rudolph for the backup role. While Rudolph, a nine-year veteran, joined the retreat, Howard's exclusion suggests he may not be in Rodgers' inner circle. The 42-year-old Rodgers has significant influence with the Steelers, having shaped the team's offseason decisions.
What's next for the Steelers' quarterbacks?
Training camp will soon reveal more about the QB2 battle. Rudolph's experience—34 NFL games and 19 starts—gives him an edge over Howard, who hasn't played a preseason snap. If Rodgers' retreat is any indication, Rudolph may already be the frontrunner for the backup spot.