McCarthy's proven QB development prowess offers Pittsburgh the spark needed to finally unearth their long-term franchise leader.
Mike McCarthy has developed a reputation as one of the best quarterback developers in the NFL.
Aaron Rodgers blossomed into a two-time MVP and a Super Bowl champion during McCarthy’s 13-year tenure as the Green Bay Packers’ coach from 2006-18. Similarly, during McCarthy’s five years as the Dallas Cowboys’ coach, Dak Prescott took his game to another level, making the Pro Bowl twice and finishing as the runner-up in the 2023 NFL MVP voting. On top of that, McCarthy also worked with Hall of Famers Joe Montana and Brett Favre.
McCarthy’s quarterback history played a role in the Pittsburgh Steelers' decision to hire him as their head coach on Saturday.
The Steelers have had instability at quarterback since Ben Roethlisberger retired after the 2021 season. In the ensuing years, Pittsburgh has had six different quarterbacks make at least three starts: Mitchell Trubisky. Kenny Pickett. Mason Rudolph, Justin Fields, Russell Wilson, and Rodgers.
Rodgers, who signed a one-year deal with the Steelers before 2025, has been the group's best. He led them to their first AFC East title since 2020, completing 65.7% of passes for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns, and seven interceptions.
Currently, the oldest player in the NFL at 42, Rodgers is a free agent and considering retirement this offseason. However, after McCarthy’s recent hiring, Rodgers’ chances of returning for another season with the Pittsburgh have improved. Owner Art Rooney II is also aware that the Steelers must find a long-term answer at quarterback, a search that has been ongoing since Roethlisberger retired. McCarthy is expected to play a major role in this quest.
"I hesitate to say that's No. 1. I think No. 1 is we want a coach who's going to lead the team to win a championship. But maybe high on the list after that is someone who can develop a quarterback,” Rooney said in a story on Sunday on the team website. “And since sooner or later, we're going to be working with a young quarterback here, I think Mike's ability to develop the next quarterback is something that certainly is important to us."
Rudolph and rookie Will Howard were Rodgers’ primary backups this season. When Rodgers broke his left wrist, Rudolph started but lost to the Chicago Bears. Howard, who led Ohio State to last year’s national championship, broke his hand in training camp and did not play in any preseason or regular-season games.
During his two interviews with the Steelers, McCarthy gave his thoughts about Rudolph and Howard.
"He likes Will Howard, thinks Will has tremendous upside and is looking forward to working with him," Rooney said. "Obviously feels like Mason can be a contributor. We'll have to sit down and discuss where Aaron is, if he decides to come back, and whether that all makes sense.
“I think Mike was very comfortable with the quarterback room and the possibilities with the quarterback room. In particular, the fact we have a young quarterback on the roster in whom he sees some upside."
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