Steelers Make Choice To Quickly Sign Former AFC North Veteran QB

The Pittsburgh Steelers got some disappointing news from training camp about rookie quarterback Will Howard. The sixth-round draft pick was having an exciting and promising training camp, and many fans were eager to see him take the field in the preseason. His strong arm and poise had turned heads early, giving hope that he could be a future option under center.

Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter / X: @JSKO_PHOTO) Steelers rookie QB Will Howard gets ready to take the snap during 2025 training camp at Latrobe, PA.

Unfortunately, an injury will now keep Howard sidelined for the entire preseason. It's a major setback for his development and could have a lasting impact on whether he ever gets a real opportunity to prove himself in Pittsburgh. Missing this stretch of live game reps is crucial for a young quarterback trying to climb the depth chart and earn the coaching staff’s trust.

With Aaron Rodgers locked in as the starter and Mason Rudolph in place as the backup, Howard’s absence has shifted the quarterback room once again. Skylar Thompson has reclaimed his spot, and on Thursday, the Steelers made it clear they were taking no chances by signing veteran quarterback Logan Woodside, formerly of the Cincinnati Bengals. Woodside brings experience and depth to help steady the position while Howard recovers.

Steelers signing QB Logan Woodside. He played under Arthur Smith in Atlanta — SteelerNation (@steelernation) August 7, 2025

The injury to Howard is a major setback, especially when looking at the long-term plans in Pittsburgh. After the 2026 NFL season, the Steelers are likely to draft a future franchise quarterback. That kind of investment would make it much more difficult for Howard to climb the depth chart and earn a real opportunity to start.

Ryan Meyers / Bengals Site Former Bengals backup QB Logan Woodside gets ready to hand the football off.

Missing the preseason makes his situation even tougher. These games were supposed to be his chance to show the coaching staff what he can do in live action. Without those valuable reps, his development stalls at a critical point in his rookie year. For a sixth-round pick already facing an uphill battle, every opportunity matters. Being sidelined now means Howard will have to fight even harder to stay relevant in the team's plans and hope for another shot down the line.

Steelers New QB Played Under Arthur Smith

The Steelers’ decision to sign Woodside makes it clear they are focused on protecting their depth at quarterback. With Howard sidelined, Pittsburgh needed a reliable veteran to fill the third-string role, and Woodside fits that need perfectly. Not only does Woodside bring experience, but he also has familiarity with Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith’s system.

Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images Steelers' Arthur Smith looks on during a game with Pittsburgh.

The two previously worked together during their time with the Tennessee Titans and later with the Atlanta Falcons, which should allow Woodside to transition smoothly into the offense. This move gives the Steelers added stability behind Rodgers and Rudolph. While Woodside is not expected to compete for a starting job, his presence provides a sense of security at a position that has already been tested by injuries in camp.

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