During a recent appearance on a Steelers-focused program, the insider explained why the quarterback’s position isn’t as secure as some might expect. He noted that Howard has now been evaluated by the Steelers’ front office for roughly 14 to 15 months, a period that has coincided with the arrival of a new head coach and a new offensive system. With the franchise drafting a quarterback in the third round, there is a window in which the coaching staff can assess Howard alongside the newer addition. The takeaway was clear: there isn’t a strong sense of confidence about Howard’s standing in the quarterback competition.
Howard, now a sixth-round pick in his second season, brings additional NFL experience to the table relative to the rookie quarterback drafted this year. That experience, though, does not include regular-season or preseason action, and much of the practice work he’s logged occurred under a different coaching regime. This means his accumulated reps may not translate as well to the current coaching staff’s system and evaluation criteria.
The insider’s assessment suggested that Howard does not possess a substantial advantage over his competition. While he does have a leg up on the field in some respects, the advantage is described as modest rather than overwhelming.
The Steelers’ quarterback room for the 2026 offseason includes four signal-callers, each bringing distinct strengths. While depth at the position is valuable, most NFL teams operate with three quarterbacks on the active roster, which makes roster decisions for the Steelers particularly challenging. Absent an injury, one of the four will be the odd man out when final cuts occur this summer.
Based on the veteran’s remarks, Howard could be at risk of being cut or traded, depending on how the competition unfolds in training camp and the preseason. He does not yet have the same level of experience as a veteran backup, but neither does he have the same ceiling as the highest-upside rookie on the depth chart. If Howard does not show clear progress in practice and in preseason opportunities, there is a plausible path for him to slip out of the 53-man roster picture.
Looking ahead, the Steelers will likely weigh several factors: the cost of keeping four quarterbacks versus the value of preserving a more compact roster; each quarterback’s readiness to contribute as a backup; and how the coaching staff evaluates development and fit within the current offensive system. The quarterback competition remains fluid, and Howard’s path to a secure roster spot will depend on his ability to demonstrate tangible improvement and consistency in practice and games.
In summary, while early hype around Will Howard suggested a potential long-term future in Pittsburgh, the latest assessments indicate a less definitive stance. The 2026 training camp will be crucial for Howard to prove he can translate any prior experience and growth into meaningful contributions for the Steelers. The competition features several competent quarterbacks, and only one will ultimately secure the backup role and a stable path forward with the team. Fans should stay tuned for how the preseason unfolds, as it will shape the final unfolding of Pittsburgh’s quarterback plans for the coming season.
