Steelers Place Rookie QB Will Howard, Donte Kent on Injured Reserve

The Pittsburgh Steelers have placed rookie quarterback Will Howard on injured reserve due to a fractured left hand sustained during training camp, sidelining him for at least the first four weeks of the 2025 NFL season. Despite an impressive start and strong preseason performances, the injury has delayed his development and limited his opportunity to compete for significant playing time behind starters Aaron Rodgers and Mason Rudolph. Fans and insiders expressed disappointment with the decision to place Howard on IR, fearing it could result in a lost season for the promising rookie. The Steelers also placed cornerback Donte Kent on injured reserve while activating veteran safety Chuck Clark and guard Max Scharping to bolster depth. Howard, a sixth-round pick out of Ohio State and former national champion, had been viewed as a future starter, making this setback particularly frustrating for both the player and fans. Although Howard is currently listed as the third-string quarterback, his injury and missed preseason reps have constrained his chances to contribute early in the season.