The Pittsburgh Steelers are in a tricky spot at the quarterback position. With Russell Wilson and Justin Fields as options, only one is expected to be back in Pittsburgh for the 2025 season. As of now, Fields appears to be the favorite, with his skill set and potential making him the likely choice for the future. However, the team’s quarterback situation remains uncertain, leaving the door open for other possibilities in the upcoming draft.

AP
Steelers' Russell Wilson talks to Justin Fields before an away game.
The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be a weak class for quarterbacks, but there are a few prospects making noise. While the top names may not have the same allure as previous years, some under-the-radar players are gaining attention. One of the sleepers in this class is Ohio State quarterback Will Howard, whose draft stock has risen considerably after leading the Buckeyes to a National Championship victory in 2024.
Currently graded roughly as a third-round pick, Howard could be a solid option for the Steelers if he’s available in the later rounds. Many around the league view him as a potential sleeper pick with big-time upside, and Pittsburgh could benefit from taking a chance on him as a project. With the uncertainty at quarterback, adding a developmental talent like Howard might be a smart move to secure the position for the long term.
Will Howard is reportedly thought to be “the most slept on” QB in this year’s draft by one NFL scout.
— NFL Rookie Watch (@NFLRookieWatxh) February 4, 2025
Howard’s speed is something that reportedly “intrigues scouts” as he’s secretly been hitting speeds of 22 MPH while training.
For reference, that would make Howard the FASTEST… pic.twitter.com/BdspXGLBpm
Howard is a bit of a question mark, but one worth considering if the opportunity arises in the later rounds. For instance, if the Steelers find themselves in the fourth round and Howard is still available, it would be a smart move to take a chance on him, as the value could be too good to pass up. In the third round, it might be a bit of a stretch, but if the reports of Howard being overlooked are accurate, he could still be worth the gamble at that point.

Jacob Kupferman / AP
Ohio State quarterback Will Howard celebrates a strong run during the National Championship against Notre Dame.
Howard's poise and leadership played a key role in leading the Buckeyes to the 2024 National Championship. His talent and quickness have caught the attention of NFL scouts, with his speed standing out as one of his most impressive traits.
A couple of runs from Will Howard #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/rVTjxKwzrL
— Matt Holder (@MHolder95) February 4, 2025
In a weaker quarterback class, a player like Howard, who is flying under the radar, could be a hidden gem for Pittsburgh. Howard was lucky to play with a strong offensive line and great wide receivers. However, many experts believe he wasn't just a system quarterback with the Buckeyes. They believe he was a game changer who could make a splash at the next level.
Steelers Could Give Themselves 2 Chances At QB In 2025
If the Steelers move forward with Fields as their starter and add Howard as a project, they would give themselves two shots at securing their future franchise quarterback. With the right development, Howard could blossom into a valuable asset for the team.
Steelers fans will be on edge as they await the team's decision at quarterback. It's undoubtedly the most important position, and right now, the Steelers are in a state of uncertainty. There’s a lot of curiosity surrounding Fields and whether he can take the next step in his development. While there’s plenty of hope for Fields' long-term potential, he still has work to do to reach it.

Mark J. Rebilas / Imagn Images
Ohio State quarterback Will Howard celebrates during the National Championship.
Adding Howard to the mix would certainly inject some excitement and intrigue into the situation. However, whether it’s a gamble worth taking is still up for debate. The decision could define the Steelers' future at quarterback, and fans will be eagerly watching to see which path the organization chooses.
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