What's Happening?
Steelers rookie quarterback Will Howard has suffered a fractured small bone in his throwing hand, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. The injury will prevent Howard from making his on-field debut for at least three weeks, although surgery is not expected to be necessary. Howard, a sixth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, is currently listed as the third quarterback on the Steelers' depth chart, behind veteran Mason Rudolph and starter Aaron Rodgers. The injury comes as the Steelers prepare for their first preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, where Howard was expected to play significant snaps.
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Why It's Important?
The injury to Will Howard is a setback for the Steelers as they look to evaluate their quarterback depth during the preseason. Howard's absence may impact the team's ability to assess his potential contribution to the roster, especially given his recent success at Ohio State. The Steelers are entering the season with Aaron Rodgers as their starting quarterback, and Howard's development is crucial for future planning. The team will need to rely on other quarterbacks to fill the gap during Howard's recovery, which could affect their preseason performance and preparation for the regular season.
What's Next?
Howard is expected to undergo further testing to confirm the extent of his injury, but no surgery is anticipated. The Steelers will continue their preseason schedule, with Howard likely missing the initial games. The team will need to adjust their quarterback rotation and may give more playing time to other backups like Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson. The Steelers will aim to ensure Howard's recovery is managed effectively to prevent any long-term impact on his playing ability.
