Former Kansas State quarterback Will Howard got his second preseason action on Friday night, continuing to audition for the second spot behind veteran Aaron Rodgers.
And it went about as poorly as it could. Howard went 10-of-15 for 74 yards and two interceptions against the New York Jets, logging a brutal 38.6 passer rating. Steelers fans had to watch the man they hyped as the potential future log a dreadful performance in yet another preseason game where Drew Allar outperformed him.
As a former Wildcat, you know Kansas fans were quick to clown Howard after this.
But honestly, Kansas State fans were just as quick to troll him. Most of them still have bad taste in their mouths from him saying the program "took advantage of him" during his playing days.
Howard played for the Wildcats for four years, throwing for 5,786 yards, 48 touchdowns, and 25 interceptions. He put up decent numbers, but nowhere near NFL-level hype. Howard transferred to Ohio State for his final season to compete nationally, where he won the championship on a legendary postseason run. He had 1,150 passing yards, eight touchdowns, and two interceptions during the 2025 playoffs, elevating him to an eventual Draft pick.
Still, it was hard for many to shake off an entire resume of mediocrity prior, which is why he fell all the way to the sixth round. Even with the title, Howard was pinned as a Day 3 selection that would likely be picked up in the fourth or fifth round. It ended up working for the Steelers, who were searching for a backup for Rodgers without having to select too early. They got Howard with the No. 185 pick, with expectations shifting from a short-term backup to a potential franchise option.
But so far, it's off to a rough start. Howard got no action in his rookie season, so this is essentially his first true playing time in Pittsburgh.
Much to the joy of both Kansas and Kansas State fans, apparently. Howard will likely have many more opportunities to shine, but his performances right now aren't the most encouraging for Steelers fans who hyped him up for months.
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Jayden Armant is a contributor to KStateRoundtable. He can be reached at [email protected].
