Tag: Will Howard

Pittsburgh Steelers rookie quarterback Will Howard suffered a setback on Tuesday after injuring his throwing hand during practice. Head coach Mike Tomlin stated the injury likely occurred during a center-quarterback exchange, although he didn’t witness the moment firsthand. Howard, a sixth-round pick, was expected to see significant playing time in Saturday’s preseason game against the Jaguars, making the injury particularly ill-timed.

Early Injuries Pile Up as Steelers Evaluate Key Players Ahead of Preseason Opener

Howard’s injury wasn’t the only concern at practice. Tight end Jonnu Smith exited early due to knee soreness, though Tomlin downplayed the severity. Meanwhile, outside linebacker Alex Highsmith is dealing with a groin injury sustained earlier in the week. He’s expected to miss at least a few more days. These developments add early wear and tear to the Steelers roster before the preseason officially begins.

Before leaving practice, Howard made the most of his limited reps. He connected with Brandon Johnson for a touchdown in the “Seven Shots” drill and later rolled out to hit tight end JJ Galbreath during the first team period. However, he did not participate in any drills beyond that opening session, prompting concern about his availability in upcoming practices and games.

Howard’s Absence Opens Door for Thompson, But Rookie QB Remains a Fan Favorite

With Howard sidelined, third-string duties fell to Skylar Thompson, a former Dolphins draft pick. Thompson took over the remaining reps, including the final two-minute drill, which ended with a dropped pass in the end zone. Howard had previously been listed ahead of Thompson on the initial depth chart, so the coming days may prove pivotal in how the quarterback depth is shaped moving forward.

Despite the injury, Howard has already carved out a place in fans’ hearts. The former Ohio State quarterback said he hadn’t realized the cheers during camp were for him, joking he thought they were for other players like Joey Porter or even legends like Troy Polamalu.

He expressed gratitude for the warm welcome, acknowledging the energy from both Buckeye and Penn State fans in the crowd. Howard’s humility and poise have made him a standout personality in camp, even as he awaits a full medical evaluation.

Pittsburgh Steelers rookie quarterback Will Howard is approaching his first NFL training camp with a determined mindset and a strong desire to develop. Speaking from Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, Howard outlined his main objective: to get better every single day.

He stressed the importance of progress, explaining that each day presents a new opportunity to refine his skills. This approach highlights his commitment to maximizing his potential and supports his belief that players are either advancing or falling behind with each practice.

Howard’s Work Ethic and Adaptability Fuel His Climb Up Steelers Quarterback Depth Chart

Howard’s determination has been evident since the Steelers selected him in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft (No. 185 overall). From the start, he’s made it clear that he’s ready to put in the necessary work to secure a role on the team.

His commitment to hard work and continuous self-improvement could prove pivotal in his journey up the quarterback depth chart. Howard understands that earning a spot in the NFL is about proving oneself through consistent effort and development.

Following a promising showing in rookie minicamp, Howard faced initial challenges adjusting to the pace and complexity of OTAs in May. However, he quickly found his rhythm and began making noticeable progress. His ability to adapt and grow during this period set a solid foundation for his first full training camp. This resilience and quick learning curve are promising signs for his future development.

Veteran Mentorship and Proven Success Position Howard for Long-Term NFL Development

Despite likely seeing limited action during the regular season, Howard finds himself in a prime developmental environment. With experienced quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers and Mason Rudolph ahead of him, Howard has access to valuable mentorship.

Observing their approach to the game and learning Pittsburgh’s offensive system from the sidelines will be critical as he transitions from college to the pros. This period of observation and learning could prove instrumental in shaping his NFL career.

Howard brings a winning pedigree, having led Kansas State to a 9-4 season in 2023 and finishing his college career by securing a national championship with Ohio State. That winning mentality is a key attribute teams seek in a quarterback.

As the preseason unfolds, Howard will have multiple opportunities to showcase his skills and growth. The Steelers will be watching closely, hoping he can eventually emerge as a long-term quarterback option for the franchise.