Will Howard, formerly of Ohio State, has made a successful transition to the NFL after being selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the sixth round of the draft. Coming from Kansas State, Howard aimed to enhance his skills and position himself for a professional career. His emotional reaction to being drafted highlights the hard work and dedication he has shown throughout his collegiate career, particularly while leading a talent-rich Buckeyes offense. Learning under the likes of Russell Wilson in Pittsburgh offers him a unique chance to refine his game further.

Howard's journey wasn't without doubts. While he showcased promise with impressive performances at Ohio State, critics questioned whether he was merely a product of the surrounding talent. Nevertheless, his selection indicates the Steelers’ belief in his potential as a future starter. As he embarks on this new chapter, Howard aims to establish himself and contribute to the franchise's storied history.

Ryan Watts, a defensive back for the Pittsburgh Steelers, has announced his retirement from football at the young age of 23 due to a neck injury he sustained during the preseason. Initially diagnosed as a stinger, the injury ultimately required him to be placed on season-ending injured reserve. The Steelers, along with medical professionals, agreed on the decision, highlighting the seriousness of the injury.

In an emotional statement, Watts expressed gratitude towards the Steelers organization for their support and stated his lifelong dedication to pursuing a career in professional football. Despite the heartbreak, he remains hopeful for future opportunities and vows to embrace whatever comes next, demonstrating resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

Jack Sawyer, the Pittsburgh Steelers' fourth-round pick, is set to redefine the team’s defensive potential. Coming from Ohio State, he brings a unique blend of toughness and football intelligence, which defensive coordinator Teryl Austin praises as ‘unbelievable intangibles.’ This aligns perfectly with the Steelers' push for a more physical identity after being outclassed in the Wild Card Round by the Baltimore Ravens. Sawyer’s ability to stop the run may significantly affect Pittsburgh's performance in the AFC North.

Despite not being the most athletic edge rusher, Sawyer's power and play strength position him well against the run, making him a valuable asset, especially in short-yardage situations. His role might not be as a starter but as a rotational player alongside stars T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, which could elevate Pittsburgh's defensive effectiveness in the upcoming season.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have added quarterback Will Howard from Ohio State in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, a move that could signal future plans for the team. Steelers legend Ben Roethlisberger shared advice with the rookie, suggesting he should embrace the lack of pressure associated with being a sixth-round pick. Roethlisberger, who had a stellar rookie season leading the Steelers to a perfect record, indicated that Howard's development could parallel his own.

Currently, Mason Rudolph holds the starting QB position, but with the likes of seasoned quarterbacks Aaron Rodgers and Kirk Cousins potentially in the picture, Howard might play a crucial role in the team's long-term strategy. The Steelers are known for their patience with young quarterbacks, and Howard's journey may just be beginning.

The Pittsburgh Steelers' decision-making during the 2025 NFL Draft has sparked conversations among fans and analysts alike, particularly regarding their choice to pass on Shedeur Sanders, the standout quarterback from Colorado. Despite speculation that the Steelers might target Sanders, it became clear that he was not a priority for the franchise as they opted instead for Will Howard from Ohio State in the sixth round. According to insider Gerry Dulac, the Steelers never intended to draft Sanders, indicating that even if he had been available in the later rounds, he was not viewed as a valuable asset.

Sanders' fall to the fifth round, where the Cleveland Browns selected him, raised eyebrows, especially since Pittsburgh was reportedly keen on quarterbacks like Jaxson Dart, whom they rated highly. Dulac emphasized that the Steelers had expressed little interest in Sanders, suggesting that their draft strategy did not align with the widespread predictions that placed him in their sights. With Sanders now in the AFC North, the Steelers may have to reckon with their decision as he continues to develop in a rival team's colors.