Steelers face setback as rookie quarterback Will Howard has been placed on injured reserve due to a hand injury sustained during training camp. The announcement, made on Thursday, August 28, 2025, by the Pittsburgh Steelers, means Howard will miss at least the first four games of the 2025 NFL season. This development impacts the team’s quarterback depth and provides opportunities for other players to step up. The Steelers organization confirmed the roster move, also noting the re-signing of veteran players to fill the gap.
Howard’s Injury Details
Will Howard, the former Ohio State quarterback who led his team to a national championship last season, suffered a fractured right hand – specifically, a pinky finger – on August 5, 2025. According to team reports, the injury occurred during a routine quarterback-center exchange early in training camp. This unfortunate incident took place before Pittsburgh’s scheduled preseason opener against Jacksonville, as reported by Sports Illustrated.
Impact on Preseason
The hand injury prevented Howard from participating in the entire preseason. This was a significant blow as he was expected to receive substantial playing time to develop and showcase his abilities. Missing these valuable reps hinders his progress and delays his integration into the Steelers’ offensive system. FOX Sports highlighted the missed opportunities for Howard to gain experience during the preseason games.
Quarterback Roster Implications
While Will Howard was not projected to immediately challenge Mason Rudolph for the primary backup role behind starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers, his absence creates a void in the quarterback room. The Steelers will now rely on other quarterbacks to provide depth and support. This situation presents a chance for other players to prove their value to the team.
Skylar Thompson’s Opportunity
Skylar Thompson now has an enhanced opportunity to solidify his position on the Steelers’ roster. With Howard sidelined, Thompson can demonstrate his skills and reliability during training camp and preseason games. A strong performance could secure his spot as a valuable backup option. Athlon Sports analysts suggest Thompson’s preseason performance will be crucial in determining his role this season.
Howard’s Perspective and Future Outlook
Despite the setback, Will Howard remains optimistic about his future with the Steelers. He views his rookie season as a developmental year and intends to use this time to learn from veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers. This approach demonstrates his commitment to long-term growth and his understanding of the learning process in the NFL, according to Newsweek.
Learning from Rodgers
Howard plans to absorb as much knowledge as possible from Aaron Rodgers, a seasoned veteran with extensive experience in the league. By observing Rodgers’ preparation, decision-making, and leadership, Howard aims to accelerate his development and become a more effective quarterback. TSN.ca reported on Howard’s eagerness to learn from Rodgers during his time on injured reserve.
Roster Adjustments Following Injury
To address the roster vacancy created by Howard’s placement on injured reserve, the Steelers have re-signed veteran safety Chuck Clark and offensive lineman Max Scharping. These additions provide depth and experience to the team as they navigate the challenges of the regular season. The Steelers organization officially announced these roster moves, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a competitive and well-rounded team.
Chuck Clark’s Return
Chuck Clark’s return brings valuable experience and leadership to the Steelers’ defense. His presence will help solidify the secondary and provide guidance to younger players. Clark’s familiarity with the team’s system and his proven track record make him a valuable asset, according to team statements reported by SFGATE.
Max Scharping’s Addition
Max Scharping’s addition strengthens the Steelers’ offensive line, providing depth and versatility. His ability to play multiple positions on the line enhances the team’s flexibility and provides valuable insurance against potential injuries. The Steelers coaching staff views Scharping as a reliable and experienced player who can contribute to the team’s success, as mentioned in various sports news outlets including Wikipedia.
Conclusion
The Steelers’ decision to place Will Howard on injured reserve due to a hand injury presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the team. While Howard’s absence impacts the quarterback depth, it also allows other players, like Skylar Thompson, to step up and prove their worth. The re-signing of veteran players further bolsters the roster as the Steelers prepare for the upcoming season. Howard’s developmental mindset and the team’s strategic roster adjustments highlight their commitment to long-term success despite this early setback.
