Will Howard, a sixth-round pick out of Ohio State, entered the Steelers’ QB room as a hopeful contributor. A fracture to a small bone in his right hand in early August sidelined him from training camp and preseason drills, prompting questions about readiness for Week 1. His rehab and velocity will influence Pittsburgh’s early-season plans and potential IR designation if not ready by opening night.

Howard, as a rookie with a chance to impress, carries obvious rushing upside and a development arc that fantasy managers will watch closely. If he operates as a primary alternative to Rudolph, his ceiling could spike with improvisational plays and short-yardage scrambles.

Howard’s broken pinky sidelined him for at least three weeks; no surgery; will serve as emergency QB and likely inactive unless Rodgers and Rudolph are injured.

Will Howard was sidelined by injury, thrusting Rudolph and Thompson into Week 1 QB duties. His absence opened the door for the veteran and the young signal-caller to showcase steadiness, while Rodgers served as an outside influence rather than a field participant.

Howard is the Steelers’ rookie QB whose pinky fracture from practice sidelined him, delaying preseason opportunities. Described as a freak accident, the injury won’t require surgery and carries a minimum three-week recovery window. He remains eager to return, but the team will balance healing with development behind Rodgers and Rudolph.