BREAKING: Mike Tomlin Delivers Injury Update on Steelers Rookie QB Will Howard
In a significant development for the Pittsburgh Steelers, head coach Mike Tomlin has officially confirmed that rookie quarterback Will Howard will be out of action for the foreseeable future after sustaining an injury during training camp. The announcement, made on Wednesday, has cast a cloud over the Steelers’ quarterback depth, particularly heading into the preseason schedule.
Howard, a promising sixth-round draft selection from Ohio State, suffered a fractured pinky finger on his throwing hand during a quarterback-center exchange drill at the team’s training facility located at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. The injury occurred on Tuesday and was promptly evaluated by the team’s medical staff.
According to Coach Tomlin, the injury is being classified as “week-to-week,” which means Howard will miss the entire preseason slate. Although the fracture will not require surgical intervention at this point, the team is opting for a cautious approach to ensure proper healing and to avoid further complications. Tomlin emphasized that the priority is to have Howard recover fully rather than rush him back into action before he’s physically ready.
This injury comes at an unfortunate time for the young quarterback, who was looking to carve out a role in the Steelers’ crowded quarterback room. Training camp and the preseason games were expected to provide Howard with invaluable reps and an opportunity to showcase his skills in live-game situations. Now, with this setback, those chances will have to wait.
Howard had shown signs of promise during the early phases of camp, demonstrating good arm strength, decision-making, and mobility. As a developmental quarterback drafted on Day 3, he was not expected to compete for the starting role immediately but was seen as a potential long-term asset the coaching staff was eager to develop. His absence leaves the Steelers a bit thinner at the quarterback position heading into preseason games, forcing backups and potentially camp invites to take on more reps in his place.
Tomlin, while clearly disappointed by the injury, remained optimistic about Howard’s future and expressed confidence in the rookie’s work ethic and mental toughness. He noted that Howard has already begun rehab protocols and is staying engaged with the team, participating in meetings and film study. The organization still sees him as a key developmental player, and this injury, while a setback, is not expected to derail his long-term prospects.
With Howard sidelined, the Steelers will likely shift more practice reps to their other quarterbacks, which could be a silver lining for those competing for roster spots or practice squad positions. This change in the rotation might open the door for a surprise performance or a breakout from another young signal-caller.
Injuries are always an unfortunate part of football, especially during training camp, when players are trying to establish themselves and earn playing time. For Howard, the timing of this injury is particularly tough, as he was just beginning to find his rhythm within the Steelers’ offensive system. However, the team remains committed to his development and believes he will come back stronger once fully healed.
In summary, Mike Tomlin’s announcement regarding Will Howard’s fractured pinky confirms that the rookie will miss all preseason action, but the injury isn’t expected to be long-term. Though disappointing, both the coaching staff and Howard remain focused on the recovery process, ensuring he returns at full strength. The Steelers now face the challenge of adjusting their quarterback plans in the short term, while still holding firm in their belief in Howard’s potential to contribute in the future.
