{"id":151585,"date":"2026-02-11T09:00:11","date_gmt":"2026-02-11T09:00:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sportnews.azontree.com\/?p=151585"},"modified":"2026-02-11T09:00:11","modified_gmt":"2026-02-11T09:00:11","slug":"steelers-fans-are-furious-why-is-sixth-round-qb-will-howard-being-buried-when-he-could-be-the-franchise-savior-in-the-post-tomlin-era-or-is-mike-mccarthy-already-doomed-to-repeat-the-same","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sportnews.azontree.com\/?p=151585","title":{"rendered":"“Steelers Fans Are FURIOUS: Why Is Sixth-Round QB Will Howard Being Buried When He Could Be the Franchise Savior in the Post-Tomlin Era \u2013 Or Is Mike McCarthy Already Doomed to Repeat the Same Old Mistakes?!”"},"content":{"rendered":"
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One young Steelers draft pick deserves chance to shine in post-Tomlin era<\/h2>\n\"Pittsburgh<\/picture><\/div>\n
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Will Howard | Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images<\/div>\n
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The Pittsburgh Steelers are at a pivotal crossroads. After the departure of long-time head coach Mike Tomlin, the quarterback position has emerged as the key determinant of the franchise\u2019s future. Enter Will Howard, the Steelers\u2019 2025 sixth-round draft pick, whose talent, work ethic, and leadership make him a strong candidate to lead Pittsburgh into its next era.<\/p>\n

Howard\u2019s journey to the NFL was marked by steady development and a knack for winning at the highest levels of college football.<\/p>\n

At Kansas State, Howard spent his early years refining his skills and demonstrating dual-threat capabilities. Over multiple seasons with the Wildcats, he totaled 5,786 passing yards with 48 touchdowns and added nearly 1,000 rushing yards with 19 touchdowns, showcasing his athleticism and playmaking ability.<\/p>\n

His profile rose significantly after transferring to Ohio State for the 2024 season. As the Buckeyes\u2019 starting quarterback, Howard led the team to a 14-win season and the College Football Playoff National Championship. He completed 73 percent of his passes for 4,010 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, setting school records for completion efficiency and leadership in high-stakes games.<\/p>\n

Beyond the stats, Howard\u2019s resilience, especially after Ohio State\u2019s loss to Michigan, demonstrated a mental toughness essential for NFL success.<\/p>\n

Will Howard deserves the chance to compete for the Pittsburgh Steelers starting QB job<\/h2>\n

Howard\u2019s transition to the NFL has been accelerated by a rare developmental opportunity: working alongside Aaron Rodgers. Signed by the Steelers for the 2025 season, Rodgers provided Howard mentorship both on the practice field and in meetings, guiding him through the nuances of professional play. Rodgers has praised Howard\u2019s football IQ, work ethic, and adaptability, emphasizing his excitement to help the rookie grow.<\/p>\n

Few quarterbacks entering the league benefit from learning directly from a four-time MVP. For Howard, this mentorship represents an invaluable step in preparing him for a leadership role in Pittsburgh. He may even get the chance to learn under him again in 2026.<\/p>\n

Howard\u2019s potential is further validated by Ben Roethlisberger, the Steelers\u2019 legendary quarterback. Big Ben has publicly expressed confidence in Howard\u2019s abilities and leadership, encouraging him to approach the role with the mindset of a long-term starter. Roethlisberger\u2019s support offers Howard not only guidance but also a cultural bridge into the Steelers\u2019 identity: toughness, intelligence, and poise.<\/p>\n

Howard himself has acknowledged Roethlisberger\u2019s mentorship, highlighting the impact of learning from one of the greatest quarterbacks in franchise history.<\/p>\n

Critics may focus on Howard\u2019s sixth-round draft status, but his career demonstrates traits far exceeding that label:<\/p>\n

Leadership and Winning Experience:<\/strong> From Kansas State to Ohio State, Howard has consistently led his teams to success.<\/p>\n

Technical Growth: <\/strong>His accuracy, decision-making, and composure under pressure indicate a quarterback ready to adapt and improve.<\/p>\n

Mentorship Advantage: <\/strong>Learning from Rodgers and Roethlisberger provides a rare accelerated development path.<\/p>\n

Fit with Steelers\u2019 Identity: <\/strong>Howard embodies the toughness, intelligence, and leadership the Steelers have long valued at quarterback.<\/p>\n

In today\u2019s NFL, a franchise\u2019s quarterback often defines its trajectory. Giving Will Howard a meaningful opportunity is not just a developmental choice; it is a strategic statement. With his proven ability to win, lead, and grow, Howard represents a promising foundation for the Steelers\u2019 future.<\/p>\n

Pittsburgh fans have every reason to be optimistic. Will Howard\u2019s combination of college success, professional mentorship, and intrinsic leadership suggests that the Steelers\u2019 next chapter at quarterback could be as bright as any in recent memory.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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