As former Kansas State quarterback Will Howard transitions into the NFL, it's been a rollercoaster even from the jump. The Pittsburgh Steelers picked Howard late in the 2025 NFL Draft, putting him in a tough spot in the pros.
Still, Howard has the support of his peers, especially from within. Steelers quarterback and four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers is still standing behind Howard, lauding the 2025 CFP champion as the future of Pittsburgh.
"Will has what it takes, from a personality and a moxie standpoint, to have a long career in the league," Rodgers said on the Pat McAfee Show on Tuesday. "You never know what's gonna happen when the live bullets start flying. But I went to him early in camp, and I said, 'I'll help you as much or as little as you want.' It's in my nature to inject during drill work and in the meeting because I want you to see the game the way I see it. I want you to think about what a young player should be thinking about. Anybody who watched him was like, 'Damn, this Will Howard is pretty good.'"
Rodgers did admit that he didn't really hear about Howard during his days in Manhattan, KS.
"I'm just gonna talk about one guy that I really got to pour into and was just incredible to work with: Will Howard," Rodgers said. "I knew about Will watching him ball out for Ohio State. I didn't really pay much attention when he was at Kansas State, to be honest. I loved watching him at Ohio State. I didn't know what to expect when Will came in and how it would be with me, Mason [Rudolph], and Skylar [Thompson], for that matter. I love those guys."
To Rodgers' credit, though, not many did. Howard didn't really put together a resume with the Wildcats worthy of NFL consideration. It was a decent four seasons, but not nearly enough to consider him ready for greener pastures. He gave himself that opportunity with a legendary run at Ohio State, but many still have their doubts.
As the Howard saga continues, only time will reveal what the organization ultimately does.
JOIN THE COMMUNITY
Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news!
It's completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members. Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!