Rookie quarterback Will Howard of the Pittsburgh Steelers sustains an injury to his throwing hand during practice.
Pittsburgh Steelers Rookie Quarterback Will Howard Sidelined with Finger Injury
Pittsburgh Steelers rookie quarterback Will Howard has been sidelined indefinitely after suffering a fracture in his right pinky finger during practice. The injury will keep him out of at least the first three weeks of preseason games, but fortunately, he will not require surgery[1][2][3].
Howard's impressive college career saw him amass a total of 9,796 yards, 83 touchdowns, and 35 interceptions in five seasons at Kansas State and Ohio State[4]. In his last season at Ohio State, he threw for an impressive 4,010 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions in 16 games[6].
The injury means that the competition for the backup quarterback position behind Aaron Rodgers is now largely between Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson, who are getting more practice and game reps in Howard's absence[1]. Howard has been focusing on mental reps and team meetings to stay prepared despite not playing[2].
In his lone season at Ohio State, Howard led the Buckeyes to a national championship[10]. He played for Ohio State University before being drafted by the Steelers in the sixth round of April's NFL draft[9].
As Howard recovers from his injury, the Steelers will be closely monitoring his progress week-to-week. Although he is currently out of physical preseason competition, he remains engaged and could potentially return later in the preseason[1][2][3][5].
Sources:
- Steelers rookie QB Will Howard out indefinitely with fractured pinky finger
- Pittsburgh Steelers QB Will Howard fractures pinky finger, out indefinitely
- Steelers QB Will Howard out 3-4 weeks with fractured pinky finger
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- The Pittsburgh Steelers' rookie quarterback, Will Howard, will be out of action indefinitely due to a fractured pinky finger, a setback that may impact the team's quarterback depth chart.
- Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson are now contending for the backup quarterback position behind Aaron Rodgers, with increased practice and game reps due to Howard's absence.
- Despite being sidelined, Howard continues to stay active mentally, attending team meetings to remain engaged and prepared for future opportunities.
- Howard showcased his talent in both NCAA Football at Kansas State and Ohio State, amassing a total of 9,796 yards, 83 touchdowns, and 35 interceptions over five seasons.
- In his last season at Ohio State, Howard proved his championship caliber by leading the Buckeyes to a national title, an achievement that adds to his growing football resume.
- If Howard recovers in time, he could potentially return to action later in the preseason, providing a boost to the Steelers as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season.
