The Pittsburgh Steelers have a chance to clinch the division this week. It could happen as early as Saturday, as the Ravens' losing to the Packers would clinch the division for Pittsburgh. Likewise, the Steelers just need to beat the Browns in order to lock in their playoff spot.
No matter what happens on Saturday, I would expect the starters to at least begin the game on Sunday. However, if the division is figured out by the end of this weekend, resting starters in week 18 will be a no-brainer.
For two Steelers rookies, this would be a make-or-break opportunity.
Will Howard has spent a healthy amount of this season on injured reserve. Since being activated to the roster, he has only served as the emergency third quarterback. Kaleb Johnson, meanwhile, has had about as disappointing a rookie season as possible. He has barely played on offense and has had a few gaffs on special teams.
Both would be in line to start in Week 18, and it would be a massive opportunity for both players to stake their claim on offense. It could also have some major ramifications for 2026.
Two young Pittsburgh Steelers could carve out 2026 roles with the final game
Let’s start with Johnson, as he is the most in need of a big game. Taken in the third round, the thought was that Johnson would be the potential lead back right away, and at the least serve as the bruiser co-starter with Jaylen Warren.
Instead, he has carried the ball all of 28 times for 69 yards. Unless something changes, he will be below 100 total scrimmage yards as a rookie.
If the week 18 game doesn’t matter, Johnson should get the look as the starter. Feeding him the ball 20-25 times will be good for his development and to set him up for a better second season.
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Howard is an even more interesting case. Taken in the sixth round, Howard quickly developed a fanbase. Some, unrightfully, view him as a future starter. I’m not quite there, but seeing him play in week 18 would be great either way.
It is no secret that the Steelers have heavily scouted the quarterback class for 2026. Unfortunately, those options have dwindled as of late. Given Pittsburgh’s likely draft pick being in the 20s, landing one of those top options will be hard.
If Howard can show something in the final game, you can at least give him another season to prove his worth. Aaron Rodgers seems likely to return next year, so having Howard behind him to groom and potentially see more opportunities would be massive.
However, you can’t go into next year with him as the backup if you haven’t seen him play a snap.
Both rookies should be actively hoping for the division to be won this week. If Pittsburgh is crowned with the AFC North title, it would be in line for a massive amount of playing time in the regular season finale.
Johnson can show some of the value that made him a third-round pick. For Howard, he could flash the traits that made him a great starter at Ohio State. Both are in need of a Steelers win in the worst way this week.