The finger injury to Will Howard pushes him to injured reserve, forcing him to miss at least four games of 2025 and elevating Skylar Thompson to Pittsburgh’s third QB role with Mason Rudolph in the rearview as a veteran option.

Thompson flashed in the preseason, delivering 70% completions with four TDs and a single interception, shaping a moment where the Steelers lean on their QB room depth while Howard rehabilitates and mulls a return window under the guidance of Rodgers and Rudolph.

Skylar Thompson delivered a preseason breakout that Pittsburgh’s staff anticipated, drawing on his Miami starting experience. In the Steelers’ 19-10 win, Thompson went 11-of-13 for 152 yards and a touchdown, displaying poise and timing against NFL speed. Mason Rudolph struggled in the two prior outings, keeping the backup QB competition unresolved as Thompson’s efficiency pressed his case. The performance emphasizes roster leverage as Pittsburgh trims to 53, with Thompson’s command potentially nudging him ahead of Rudolph for the No. 2 role behind Kenny Pickett. If Thompson lands the top backup spot, fantasy managers will eye late-round value tied to potential spot work or relief duty, especially if injury or a midseason opportunity arises.