Full Breakdown
Pittsburgh Steelers' Quarterback Situation: Will Howard's Potential Return and Draft Implications
10/22/2025, 2:27:36 AM
Roster Moves Indicate Will Howard's Progress
The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a significant roster move that suggests rookie quarterback Will Howard is nearing a return from injury. The team terminated the contract of practice squad quarterback Logan Woodside, which may indicate that Howard is making substantial progress towards being activated from the injured reserve list. Howard, who sustained a hand injury during training camp, has been on the reserve/injured list since then. With Woodside's departure, the Steelers are expected to open Howard's 21-day practice window to assess his readiness for activation.
Implications of Howard's Return
Howard's potential return is crucial for the Steelers, especially as they navigate their quarterback depth chart. Currently, the team has Aaron Rodgers and Mason Rudolph as their primary quarterbacks. If activated, Howard would likely serve as the emergency No. 3 option. However, the Steelers may face a roster conundrum if Skylar Thompson, who is also on injured reserve, is cleared to return. The Steelers will need to make an additional roster move to accommodate Howard, which could provide him with valuable practice reps after missing significant time during the preseason.
Cleveland Browns' Quarterback Dilemma
In contrast, the Cleveland Browns are grappling with their own quarterback situation. After parting ways with Baker Mayfield, the Browns currently have rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders on their roster, both of whom are unproven. With the 2026 NFL Draft approaching, the Browns are projected to have two first-round picks, including one from the Jacksonville Jaguars. Analysts suggest that Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson could be a target for Cleveland, given his impressive performance this season, which includes a completion rate of 70.2% and 18 touchdowns against just one interception.
Compensatory Draft Pick Concerns
The Steelers' quarterback situation also has implications for their future draft picks. The team is projected to receive a compensatory pick in the 2026 NFL Draft due to Justin Fields' departure in free agency. However, Fields' recent benching by the New York Jets could negatively impact the value of that pick. If Fields does not play again this season, the Steelers may see their projected fourth-round pick drop to a sixth-round selection. This situation is compounded by the Steelers' overall struggles with maximizing compensatory picks from other departing players.
Official Statements & Responses
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has not publicly commented on the specifics of Howard's return, but the team's actions suggest a focus on ensuring they have adequate quarterback depth moving forward. Meanwhile, Jets owner Woody Johnson expressed no regrets about parting ways with Rodgers, despite his success with the Steelers, indicating a forward-looking approach in team management.
What's Next for the Steelers?
As the Steelers prepare for their upcoming games, the focus will be on Howard's recovery and potential activation. The team must also navigate the complexities of their quarterback depth chart, especially with the looming 2026 NFL Draft, where they may seek to secure a franchise quarterback. The situation remains fluid, and the Steelers will need to make strategic decisions in the coming weeks to optimize their roster and draft positioning.
