BUFFALO, NY — The quarterback debate that has dominated the Steelers’ preseason appears to be resolved, but a new question has emerged ahead of Sunday’s cutdown day.The Steelers are fully prepared to keep all four quarterbacks on their 53-man roster. While it’s unorthodox, the team wants to retain Mason Rudolph as the primary backup to Aaron Rodgers to give themselves the best chance to win in this window. At the same time, they plan to keep Will Howard (who was evaluated for a head injury after the game) and Drew Allar as developmental pieces. A sentiment that’s held throughout the organization was underscored by the head coach after the game.“I think that’s a very accurate evaluation on your part,” Mike McCarthy said when asked if he has four QBs who have earned roster spots. “I feel good about the quarterback room. I’ve been saying it for quite some time. They’ve showed it on the field. We’ve got two veterans that we can win with, and we’ve got two young guys that we’re really excited about their future.”The uncertainty lies with Joey Porter Jr. He’s spent the preseason on the physically unable to perform list with what the team is terming a back injury. He’s also seeking a new contract. McCarthy said earlier this week that the team is at an “impasse” in negotiations. Now, decision time is coming. By 6 p.m. on Sunday, the team has two options: Activate Porter off the PUP list or he’ll have to remain on the reserve/PUP list for at least the first four regular-season games.“I know he had an excellent workout today,” McCarthy said. “I know that he was back (in Pittsburgh) part of that group today.”Joey Porter Jr. and Steelers at an 'impasse' on contract talksMike DeFaboPorter is under contract for the final year of his rookie contract. The team also has leverage, as they can use the franchise tag on him in 2027 and 2028. The Steelers have a long-standing policy that they do not negotiate contracts during the season. While the organization doesn’t appear optimistic that a deal will get done before Sept. 13, deadlines can sometimes bring two sides together. In the shorter term, the first deadline to watch is on Sunday.That’s the reporting part of this story. Now on to the informed speculation, as we take a look at the rest of the projected 53-man roster:Offense: 26Quarterbacks (4): Aaron Rodgers, Mason Rudolph, Will Howard, Drew AllarIt’s been an up-and-down preseason for Howard. On Thursday, the second-year pro helped the team score two touchdowns on short fields but also took three sacks and threw an interception on a miscommunication. If Howard or Allar is going to be the QB of the future, both will need varying degrees of development. Agree or disagree, expect the Steelers to keep both to give themselves that opportunity.Running backs (3): Jaylen Warren, Rico Dowdle, Travis Homer