Will Howard, the Steelers' sixth-round draft pick, has high expectations but faces daunting odds as he aims to become the team's starting quarterback. He missed most of his rookie season due to a hand injury yet boasts an impressive background, having trained under Aaron Rodgers. However, the historical statistics of sixth-round quarterbacks indicate that success is rare, with only 2 out of 56 having truly excelled in the NFL. Given the challenges Howard must overcome, he is seen more as a gamble in the Steelers' ongoing search for a franchise quarterback. The road to proving himself will be arduous, given the precedents set by past sixth-round picks.

By the Numbers
  • Since 2000, 56 quarterbacks drafted in the sixth round have a combined total of 20 Pro Bowls and 1,091 touchdowns.
  • Without Tom Brady, those numbers drop to only 5 Pro Bowls and 432 touchdowns, with 21 QBs having never thrown a pass in an NFL game.
Yes, But

Despite the statistics being stacked against him, Howard’s training under elite quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers could offer him an advantage that previous sixth-round QBs did not have.

State of Play
  • Howard missed significant playing time during his rookie season due to a hand injury.
  • The Steelers are actively looking for a long-term replacement for Ben Roethlisberger.
What's Next

As the Steelers gear up for the next season, Howard will need to demonstrate his potential during preseason games to secure a spot as a starter, competing against future challengers in the quarterback role.

Bottom Line

Will Howard's future as the Steelers’ QB1 hinges on overcoming historical challenges faced by sixth-round quarterbacks, combined with the advantages of his unique training and potential. He represents both hope and uncertainty in Pittsburgh’s search for a franchise quarterback.