Will Howard's chances to make roster take hit

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Will Howard. Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Steelers rookie QB Will Howard's chances to make 53-man roster take hit with disappointing update

By Jordan Sigler | Last updated Aug 5, 2025 10:05 PM ET

Sixth-round pick Will Howard faces an uphill battle to make the Pittsburgh Steelers' 53-man roster before Week 1.

Howard suffered a hand injury midway through Tuesday's practice. Per multiple reports, the issue happened during a center-quarterback exchange on a snap, causing the quarterback to leave practice early.

According to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, Howard suffered a bone fracture in his right (throwing) hand. He will miss the preseason.

"Steelers rookie QB Will Howard, who banged his throwing hand in practice, suffered a fractured small bone in his hand, sources say," Rapoport posted on X. "He’s having additional tests, but it’s likely no surgery is required. He’s expected to miss at least 3 weeks, but more info coming...

"Will Howard has been impressing at camp, but now out the rest of the preseason. More reps for Mason Rudolph and added opportunity for Skylar Thompson."

Will Howard has been impressing at camp, but now out the rest of the preseason. More reps for Mason Rudolph and added opportunity for Skylar Thompson. https://t.co/BpNxqIfk8V
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 6, 2025

Howard was having a strong showing as QB3 at training camp this summer. However, the quarterback — coming off a national championship run at Ohio State last season — needed to continue his streak in Pittsburgh's three preseason games in August.

Howard was born and raised in West Chester, Pennsylvania, and attended Downingtown West High School. The 23-year-old is considered a "fan favorite" as a native of the Steelers' home state.

Unfortunately for Howard, he'll have to wait before he can be on the field again to learn from starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers and gain experience playing in live reps during games.

The issue could force Pittsburgh to place the rookie on the practice squad, if they want to take the risk of him going to another team on the waiver wire.

Jordan Sigler

Jordan Sigler is a sports writer with a decade of experience as a journalist, including his time as a breaking news/day cops reporter for the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal. His sports coverage across the NFL, NBA, WNBA, MLB, NHL, and college football world has also been featured at ChiCitySports, Gridiron Heroics, Pro Football Network, and Athlon Sports. Based in Austin, Texas, Jordan graduated with a bachelor's degree in journalism from Texas Tech University in 2014

More must-reads: