The Pittsburgh Steelers made headlines in the 2025 NFL Draft by selecting Ohio State quarterback Will Howard in the sixth round. For many fans, the "will howard draft" buzz started long before draft day. Howard's skillset, college production, and fit with the Steelers have been hot topics, and his journey to Pittsburgh offers plenty to analyze.

The Road to the Will Howard Draft Selection

Will Howard’s college football journey is a testament to perseverance and growth. Starting at Kansas State, Howard set records before transferring to Ohio State for his final season. He played 50 games, threw for more than 9,700 yards, and tossed 83 touchdowns against just 10 interceptions. His 2024 campaign was historic—leading the Buckeyes to a school-record 14 victories and a national title, achieving both efficiency and leadership at the highest level.

At the combine and during team interviews, Howard stood out for his poise and maturity. He told reporters, "From the moment I met Coach Tomlin, I was like—this is a guy I can play for." It's not just stats that made him a Steelers target; it was also character and cultural fit. His Pennsylvania roots add to the story, as Howard himself emphasized the significance of being drafted by a respected franchise in his home state.

Evaluating the Steelers’ 2025 Quarterback Room

The Steelers’ decision to draft Howard in the sixth round surprised some analysts, given his college success. Pittsburgh already had depth at quarterback but saw an opportunity to infuse more competition and talent into the group. General Manager Omar Khan described the 2025 draft as a step forward for the franchise, filling key needs and reinforcing core values. Coach Mike Tomlin echoed these sentiments, praising Howard's physicality, intelligence, and leadership.

Howard’s stellar 2024 season included over 4,000 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, and a career- and school-record completion percentage. From explosive arm strength to calm decision-making under pressure, Howard checks many boxes for an NFL prospect. His championship pedigree and adaptability only make the selection more intriguing for Pittsburgh.

Read the full Steelers 2025 Draft Class breakdown for insights on Howard and other key picks.

How Does Will Howard Compare to Other Quarterbacks in the 2025 Draft?

Howard wasn’t the only quarterback to generate headlines in the later rounds. For context, the Miami Dolphins selected Texas QB Quinn Ewers in round seven, targeting him for future development (read more about the Dolphins’ selection of Ewers). Comparisons between Howard and fellow draftees highlight Pittsburgh’s focus on intangibles and proven production. Not all high-profile college quarterbacks, such as Shedeur Sanders, rose as expected, underscoring how NFL front offices weigh fit and upside differently. See this analysis from CBS Sports to understand why some prospects slide on draft boards.

What Will Howard Brings to Pittsburgh

Howard’s combination of size, arm talent, and winning experience aligns with Pittsburgh’s renewed commitment to physicality and toughness. Tomlin said, "We wanted to retool physicality in all areas… Howard fits the bill." The Steelers’ offense in 2025 will likely lean on a balanced approach, but don’t be surprised if Howard’s quick release and mobility earn him early opportunities.

The West Chester, PA native is already embracing the challenge. As he put it, "It’s not about when, it’s where. 100 percent the right team picked me." His attitude and background suggest he’s prepared for the demands of the NFL and the expectations that come with wearing black and gold.

Conclusion: The Impact of the Will Howard Draft for the Steelers

The "will howard draft" selection reflects the Steelers’ forward-thinking strategy. By investing in Howard, Pittsburgh aims to secure depth, competition, and future upside at the NFL’s most critical position. With a strong supporting cast, proven coaches, and Howard’s championship mindset, the table is set for an exciting chapter in Steelers history.

Stay tuned for rookie camp reports and further analysis as Will Howard begins his NFL journey. For more on quarterback trends from the 2025 NFL Draft, check out the full analysis of draft QB picks.