Steelers’ Pat Freiermuth Makes Revealing Statement On Why Will Howard Is Already Standing Out

The Pittsburgh Steelers are known for developing talent drafted in later rounds and getting the best out of them. Throughout Pittsburgh's many selections, they have consistently found players who outperform their draft position and become key contributors. The organization places a strong emphasis on coaching, player development, and creating a culture that allows young players to grow. Whether it is on offense, defense, or special teams, Pittsburgh has a track record of turning overlooked prospects into reliable starters. That reputation gives every late-round pick a legitimate opportunity to earn a role and make a lasting impact on the team.

One of the recent projects that Pittsburgh has taken on is Will Howard. Pittsburgh selected Howard in the sixth round during the 2025 NFL Draft, and many fans questioned the pick at the time. Howard was positioned to compete for the backup role this past season, but was unfortunately sidelined by a fractured bone in his throwing hand that kept him out of competing for the backup position with Mason Rudolph. Howard came from The Ohio State University where he led the buckeyes to a national title his last season in college. Howard showcases a wide variety of skills, as he can beat you through the air, but also scramble and hurt you with his legs when need be.

Howard is learning what is required of him to be an NFL-caliber quarterback under Aaron Rodgers, who is no doubt set to be a Hall of Fame inductee when his career is wrapped up. However, reports are coming out from Pittsburgh that Howard is not only learning from Rodgers, but also finding his own way of doing things, while keeping in mind the example he is being taught. 

Steelers star tight end Pat Freiermuth recently spoke to this and praised Howard via the Steelers' YouTube channel.

"I think Will's done a great job coming in and learning from Aaron, and creating his own way," Freiermuth explained.

Howard's development is key to his future and there is no guarantee that he is going to have an opportunity in Pittsburgh after Rodgers is gone. This is especially with the recent development of Drew Allar, who was drafted this past April. He could potentially compete with Howard for the job down the road. The likelihood of either guy getting the job is very slim however, but it is key that Howard gains all he can from Rodgers this season and turn it into something he can use towards his career down the road when need be. 

A strong training camp and preseason for Howard would go a long way towards a potential role in the offense in the years to come. The hope will continue for Howard as long as he continues to make positive strides towards what Pittsburgh needs to see.

Steelers Need Huge Strides In The Preseason From Howard

Over Howard's football career, he has shown that the physical tools are there, but lacks consistent accuracy and composure from time to time. Howard tends to speed himself up when he faces pressure and his footwork gets messy, which translates to inaccurate throws. Issues like these from Howard could put a huge dent in the progress he makes if not corrected in the near future.

These are all very correctable issues for a young quarterback, and Head Coach Mike McCarthy has an impressive track record with developing quarterbacks. Pittsburgh's major hope resides in the ability of McCarthy to fix these issues with Howard. If done correctly, it could be big for the hope of any future role in the offense. This upcoming preseason will tell a lot on what McCarthy and Pittsburgh think of Howard's chances. There is no question the physical tools are all there as mentioned, but it is a matter of if Howard is able to put all these tools together. 

Howard faces an uphill battle, but hopefully he is able to put everything together and be the answer to Pittsburgh's quarterback question.

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