Steelers Apparently Seem To Have Little Faith In Fan-Favorite Rookie Will Howard

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been in a weird spot with the quarterback position ever since Ben Roethlisberger decided to retire following the 2021 season. The organization has tried a few different things when it comes to quarterback play, including drafting Kenny Pickett in the first round back in 2022. That didn't work out, and the franchise has been putting a Band-Aid on the position ever since as the QB room has been completely turned over in two consecutive seasons. Aaron Rodgers is playing well for the Steelers currently, but the fan base is still anxious to get a long-term answer at the most important position in football.

Pittsburgh has already tried drafting a quarterback high and it did not work out, but the franchise drafted another quarterback during the 2025 NFL Draft in Will Howard. Howard was a sixth-round selection, so there aren't nearly as high of expectations as there were for Pickett, but the fan base is excited. Howard has all the physical attributes to be a successful starter in the league, he is just going to need a chance. 

Fans wants to see him be able to be the team's starter in the future, but team insider Gerry Dulac gave those fans a reality check during his chat on Wednesday for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

"I think they are willing to see what he has, given that they never got the chance this year at all," Dulac wrote. "I don't think they think he's the savior, nor do I think they think he's a permanent backup."

It was a bit bizarre to see Howard fall to the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, especially with the impressive playoff run he went on to end the college football season in 2024. He beat some of the best teams in the country, and he made it look easy. He fell to Pittsburgh, and he should see some opportunities over the next couple of years.

Howard started training camp off hot, but he suffered a fluke injury while taking a snap that caused him to miss serious time, including all three preseason games. The fan base still has not seen the rookie quarterback play in a professional game, although he was brought back to practice ahead of Pittsburgh's Week 8 matchup.

Going into the 2025 season, there was no expectation that Howard would see the field. Rodgers is the clear starter while Mason Rudolph is a reliable backup quarterback. This year was about development and improving while getting used to life in the NFL, and he can finally do that now that he is off of Injured Reserve.

According to Dulac, the organization is not relying on Howard to become a starting quarterback, which is normal considering he was a Day 3 draft pick. However, the fact that the franchise does not even see him as a permanent backup is concerning. He certainly has talents and skills, but the organization might not think he is a NFL-caliber quarterback.

Steelers' Will Howard Should Get Opportunity Ahead Of 2026 Season

It is yet to be determined whether or not Rodgers will be retiring after the 2025 season, but it is fair to assume that the Steelers are going to need a new starting quarterback for the 2026 season. Pittsburgh can look to select one in the 2026 NFL Draft, as the organization might have enough draft capital to move up in the first round if there is a player at the position that the franchise is in love with. The Steelers could also pursue another veteran option in free agency, although it is hard to tell who will be available at this stage of the season.

The fan base wants to see Howard get an opportunity to be the guy in Pittsburgh, and the franchise should allow that to happen. Especially with how desperate the city has been for a franchise quarterback.

What do you think about Steelers' thoughts on Howard? Let us know in the comments below!

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