Steelers Face Backlash Over QB Will Howard

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Dibyendu Mondal | Last updated Apr 29, 2025 12:09 PM ET

Will Howard, the ex-Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback, led the team to a championship title after joining only a year ago from Kansas State. Despite his feat, the star signal-caller had to wait for five rounds before getting selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers as the 185th pick in round six.

ESPN draft analysts Matt Miller and Jordan Reid each questioned Pittsburgh’s strategy with this pick. They feel that the Steelers should have used an earlier pick for a signal-caller who is a better fit for their team.

"Pittsburgh waited until No. 185 in Round 6 before picking a quarterback, selecting Ohio State's Will Howard." Miller pointed out in a report released Sunday. "Despite leading the Buckeyes to the national championship last season, Howard doesn't project as a starting-level NFL quarterback due to his limited arm strength. He has good running ability and high-end toughness, but he isn't the starting-level quarterback the Steelers need."

Reid added, "I am also confused by what the Steelers did at quarterback. It was the biggest hole on their roster, as Mason Rudolph is currently projected to be their starter. While there are free agent options still out there (Aaron Rodgers), I thought the Steelers would pick a quarterback before the sixth round. Howard was graded as a mid-Day 3 pick, and I don't think there's much of a chance of him playing early."

Pittsburgh bound!! @whoward_ #exceling pic.twitter.com/MzFHlmHl2k
— excel football (@excelfootball) April 26, 2025

Brooke Pryor of ESPN echoed a similar statement regarding the pick. She feels that if the Steelers don't sign veteran Aaron Rodgers to fill the final spot in the quarterback room, they might regret their decision to wait, casting a shadow over Howard's abilities.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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