Pittsburgh Steelers rookie quarterback Will Howard has hit a rough patch. While practicing, he fractured a small bone in his throwing hand. Fortunately, he won’t need surgery. However, he will be sidelined for at least three weeks, which is tough for him as he starts his NFL journey.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport shared the news, noting that Howard will miss crucial practice time and the preseason games. This is particularly hard because he could have showcased his skills against teams like the Jacksonville Jaguars and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
As Howard sits on the sidelines, the starting role will likely be filled by veteran Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers was brought in to help the Steelers aim for a Super Bowl win. If he stays healthy, he’ll take the field against the New York Jets on September 7.
Howard, picked in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, had an impressive college career at Ohio State. He threw for over 4,000 yards and 35 touchdowns last season, contributing significantly to his team’s national championship win. However, this injury might hinder his growth.
Historically, many rookie quarterbacks have faced similar challenges. For instance, in 2019, Kyler Murray missed early training due to a hamstring injury but later became a standout player. These setbacks can be frustrating, but they often lead to growth if players can bounce back.
With Howard out, backups Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson may step up. The Steelers haven’t decided on their preseason game plan yet. As fans watch the upcoming games, they’ll be eager to see how the team’s dynamics change and how Howard’s injury affects future plans.
The road to recovery won’t be easy, but young players like Howard often learn a lot by observing their teammates. With hard work and determination, he could still have a bright future ahead in the NFL.
For further details on NFL injuries and player updates, you can check out ESPN’s coverage.
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Will Howard (20 – Downingtown West)