Steelers OC Arthur Smith Shares Important Key Into Developing Quarterback Draft Pick Will Howard

With the 185th overall selection in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers have added to their roster by choosing Will Howard, a quarterback from Ohio State University. Throughout the offseason, the Steelers have been a central topic of numerous discussions and speculations. However, a particularly prominent narrative dominating the media has centered around the vacancy at their starting quarterback position. Because of this, many people were left wondering whether the Steelers would address this crucial position during the 2025 NFL Draft, and as it now stands, their selection of Howard confirms that they have indeed done so.

"There's been a lot of discussion about the development of quarterbacks, and I think the one thing that I've enjoyed, certainly the last couple of years, I think the third quarterback rule," Smith shared. "It helps a lot of guys... there's more jobs available."

This response from Smith carries significant weight, especially considering the current confusion surrounding the team's starting quarterback situation. It has been heavily reported that the Steelers have presented a contract offer to veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers; however, as of yet, no official response has happened. A lot of people thought that Rodgers would announce his decision before the start of the NFL Draft, given the impact of his choice and the strategic opportunities presented during the NFL Draft.

During his final season with the Buckeyes, Howard put together a truly remarkable performance. He played a pivotal role in the Buckeyes' successful run to victory in the most recent college National Championship game. Individually, Howard also distinguished himself within his conference, leading in several key statistical categories. His impressive total of 4,010 passing yards placed him at the top of the conference in that category. Also, Howard's proficiency in finding the end zone was evident in his conference-leading 35 touchdown passes. Demonstrating exceptional accuracy, he also held the highest completion percentage in the conference, connecting on an impressive 73.0% of his pass attempts.

The selection of Howard is an undeniably exciting addition to the Steelers' roster and could very well prove to be a steal selection in the draft. Howard's presence carries particular significance, as even if he doesn't immediately step into the starting role, which appears to be the most probable scenario, he will have the invaluable opportunity to grow his skills and learn from a seasoned veteran. Rodgers, should he join the team, holds the title of being the league's oldest active player, bringing with him years of accumulated knowledge and experience from both being mentored by Brett Favre early in his career and later guiding a younger quarterback in Jordan Love. In the event that Rodgers does not ultimately sign with the Steelers, the team already has Mason Rudolph on their roster from a move made this offseason, a player who possesses prior experience within the organization.

The Steelers Appear To Follow Their Explosive Offensive Strategy

In recent statements, Smith shared his goals for the team to develop a dynamic and explosive offensive unit. Prior strategic moves made by the Steelers align with this goal, notably the acquisition of the accomplished veteran wide receiver DK Metcalf. Metcalf's arrival in Pittsburgh was secured through a trade that involved this year's second-round draft selection, and the Steelers committed to him with a substantial five-year, $150 million contract. 

Also, during the third round of the NFL Draft, the team added the explosive running back Kaleb Johnson to their offensive front. Now, with the addition of Howard to the mix, the potential for an electrifying Steelers offense in the seasons to come is certainly something to anticipate. With further selections yet to be made in the ongoing NFL Draft, it will be particularly interesting to see which additional positions and specific skill sets the Steelers prioritize as they continue to build their team. Regardless of their remaining choices, this draft has already proven to be significantly impactful for the organization, and there is a lot of anticipation to witness these new players shine on the field in the future.