Will Howard impresses Steelers with determination and mentorship from Aaron Rodgers
The Pittsburgh Steelers are witnessing the emergence of rookie quarterback Will Howard, who is making a compelling case for his future within the franchise. While it may be premature to label a sixth-round pick as the team’s quarterback of tomorrow, Howard’s relentless pursuit of improvement is forcing fans and analysts alike to reconsider.
Overcoming Adversity
Howard’s journey has not been without challenges. After suffering a hand injury during training camp, he spent a significant portion of the season on the sidelines. However, he returned to practice weeks ago and has now rejoined the 53-man roster, where he finds himself behind experienced quarterbacks Mason Rudolph and Aaron Rodgers. Despite the setback, Howard’s time away from the field did not hinder his growth; instead, he turned it into an opportunity to learn and develop.
The Word Doc Method
In a recent media session, Howard revealed an insightful approach to his training. He has created a digital repository of wisdom gleaned from Aaron Rodgers, one of the NFL’s all-time greats. “I literally have like a Word document of just like nuggets that I get from Aaron every day,” Howard shared. “If there’s something that he tells me or something he says in meetings, I’ll just try to write it down. Just have a little bank of the things that I’m learning.”
This strategy reflects Howard’s commitment to soaking up knowledge from a player often heralded as a model leader and mentor. With Rodgers by his side, Howard is not just a passive observer; he is actively engaged in his development and ready to apply these lessons on the field.
A Competitive Landscape
Entering the league, Howard faced skepticism about his potential as a franchise quarterback. Joining a Pittsburgh roster that is eyeing future draft classes adds layers of complexity to his aspirations. The Steelers’ front office is strategically planning for the long-term, which could overshadow Howard’s ambitions.
However, the rookie from Ohio State is doing everything he can to carve out his niche. Learning from a future Hall of Famer like Rodgers provides him with a significant advantage in any future competition. Rodgers is not merely another veteran; he is a player who is often mentioned in discussions of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game.
Future Potential
While the odds may still be stacked against him, Howard’s determination and willingness to learn could provide him with a fighting chance. Whether he ultimately becomes the face of the Steelers remains uncertain; however, his relentless work ethic and proactive approach to mentorship could open doors that many thought were closed.
Howard’s journey is just beginning, but with a mentor like Rodgers and an unwavering commitment to his craft, he is laying the groundwork for a potential future in Pittsburgh. The next few months will be telling as he continues to develop on and off the field.
