Pittsburgh Steelers fans are no strangers to quarterback controversies. From the post-Roethlisberger era to the current quarterback carousel, the team’s struggles at the position have been a central topic of conversation. This offseason, the acquisition of veteran Russell Wilson and the trade for Justin Fields dominated headlines. However, the unexpected arrival of rookie Will Howard via the draft has thrown a new, intriguing wrench into the mix, leading many to ask: Does he deserve to be the Steelers’ top quarterback now, or in the very near future?
The case for Will Howard is built on a foundation of tangible skills and a pro-ready demeanor that belies his rookie status. At 6’4″ and 240 pounds, Howard has the prototypical size of a modern NFL quarterback. More importantly, his arm talent is undeniable. He can make all the throws on the field, from deep-ball bombs to precise sideline passes. But what truly sets him apart is his athleticism. In an era where mobility is a non-negotiable trait for quarterbacks, Howard’s ability to extend plays and gain yards with his legs adds a dynamic dimension to the offense that neither Wilson nor Fields consistently offers in the same way. His combination of size, arm strength, and mobility makes him a unique and compelling prospect.
Looking at his collegiate career, Howard’s journey was one of steady improvement and resilience. Starting at Kansas State, he navigated a challenging Big 12 conference, demonstrating a knack for clutch plays in high-pressure situations. His time there prepared him for the physical and mental rigors of the NFL. While his stats weren’t always eye-popping, his win-loss record speaks volumes about his leadership and ability to put his team in a position to succeed. For a franchise like the Steelers that prides itself on toughness and a “next man up” mentality, Howard’s background is a perfect fit. He has shown he can handle adversity and lead a team to victory, traits that are often more valuable than raw statistics.
However, the argument against rushing Howard into the starting role is equally strong. The NFL is a different beast entirely. The speed of the game, the complexity of defensive schemes, and the intense pressure are factors that even the most talented rookies struggle to adapt to. The Steelers have Russell Wilson, a Super Bowl-winning veteran with years of experience navigating the ups and downs of an NFL season. They also have Justin Fields, a young, athletic quarterback who, despite his struggles in Chicago, has shown flashes of brilliance. These two veterans provide a stable, experienced presence that a rookie, no matter how talented, simply cannot. It would be a disservice to Howard to throw him into the fire too soon, potentially damaging his confidence and long-term development.
Furthermore, the Steelers’ offensive line, while improved, is still a work in progress. Protecting a rookie quarterback is paramount, and it’s a responsibility that requires a cohesive unit. Allowing Howard to sit and learn behind Wilson and Fields gives the offensive line time to gel and improve, providing him with a better foundation to succeed when his time comes. The best path for Howard’s future, and for the Steelers’ success, is to let him develop. He can absorb the playbook, learn from veteran mistakes, and refine his skills without the immense pressure of being “the guy.”
The long-term vision for the Steelers must be carefully considered. While a rookie might provide a jolt of energy, a veteran presence provides stability. The Steelers have made it clear that their goal is to win now, and for that to happen, they need a reliable quarterback who can execute the offense without major growing pains. While Will Howard may not be the answer for Week 1, his future with the team is incredibly bright. The question isn’t whether he deserves a chance, but rather when the right time is for him to take the reins. For now, he is a promising long-term asset, not a short-term solution. When his number is called, he’ll be ready.
