Will Howard latest update
Will Howard is entering his second NFL season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the young quarterback has quickly become one of the more intriguing players on the team’s roster.
Howard made his long-awaited NFL game debut in Pittsburgh’s preseason opener against the Green Bay Packers on Thursday, August 13, 2026. He had not appeared in a regulation game since leading Ohio State to the 2025 College Football Playoff championship.
His first NFL appearance was productive. Howard completed 7 of 9 passes for 86 yards, helping Pittsburgh defeat Green Bay 28-9.
Here is everything to know about Will Howard, including whether he is playing tonight, his latest stats, jersey number and height.
Is Will Howard playing tonight?
If you are searching for “Is Will Howard playing tonight?”, the important date is August 14, 2026.
Howard already played in the Steelers’ preseason opener against the Packers on Thursday night, August 13. He was expected to receive playing time after Mason Rudolph, while rookie Drew Allar was also scheduled to see action.
Therefore, Will Howard is not playing tonight against Green Bay because that preseason game has already been completed.
The Steelers’ next scheduled preseason game is against the New York Jets on Friday, August 21, according to CBS Sports’ current schedule listing.
Whether Howard plays in that matchup will depend on Pittsburgh’s quarterback rotation and the coaching staff’s plans.
Will Howard stats today
Howard’s latest game statistics came against the Packers.
Will Howard vs. Packers
| Stat | Result |
|---|---|
| Completions | 7 |
| Attempts | 9 |
| Completion rate | 77.8% |
| Passing yards | 86 |
| Passing TDs | 0 |
| Interceptions | 0 |
Howard completed seven of his nine attempts and produced 86 passing yards. He also helped lead a successful two-minute offensive sequence that finished with a touchdown.
It was an encouraging first appearance after spending his entire rookie season without playing in an NFL game.
Will Howard jersey number
Will Howard wears No. 18 for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Steelers’ official player page lists Howard as QB #18.
The number has become part of Howard’s identity in Pittsburgh as he competes for a larger role behind veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers and alongside Mason Rudolph and Drew Allar.
How tall is Will Howard?
He is listed at 6 feet 4 inches (1.93 meters).
The Steelers list him at 6-4 and 235 pounds, while other NFL databases list his playing weight around 236 pounds.
His size gives him a traditional NFL quarterback frame and allows him to see over the offensive line while operating from the pocket.
Who is Will Howard?
He is an American football quarterback who currently plays for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
He played his final college season at Ohio State after transferring from Kansas State. At Ohio State, Howard helped the Buckeyes win the College Football Playoff national championship.
The Steelers selected him in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft with the 185th overall pick.
His rookie season was unusual because a hand injury prevented him from appearing in the preseason. As a result, his first regulation NFL appearance did not come until the Steelers’ 2026 preseason opener against Green Bay.
NFL career
Howard entered the NFL with plenty of college experience but faced a crowded quarterback room in Pittsburgh.
The Steelers signed veteran Aaron Rodgers during the 2025 offseason, while Mason Rudolph also remained part of the quarterback picture. Pittsburgh then selected Drew Allar in the 2026 NFL Draft.
That situation means Howard has had to make the most of limited opportunities.
His performance against Green Bay was an important first step. Rather than looking overwhelmed, he completed 77.8% of his passes and showed confidence while operating the offense.
ESPN reported that Howard looked comfortable directing Pittsburgh’s two-minute offense during the game.
Will Howard college career
Before entering the NFL, Howard established himself as a major college quarterback.
He began his college career at Kansas State before transferring to Ohio State for his final season.
At Ohio State, Howard played an important role in the Buckeyes’ championship run. His combination of size, arm strength and mobility helped him become an NFL prospect.
The Steelers ultimately selected him 185th overall in the 2025 draft.
What is Will Howard’s role with the Steelers?
Howard’s role remains one of the more interesting quarterback situations in Pittsburgh.
Aaron Rodgers is the veteran option, while Mason Rudolph provides additional experience. Drew Allar is also a highly regarded young quarterback who made his own impressive preseason debut against Green Bay.
Howard therefore needs to continue performing when opportunities arise.
His preseason opener was particularly valuable because he finally got an opportunity to show what he can do in an actual game rather than only during practices.
Height and weight
Here are Howard’s key physical measurements:
- Height: 6 feet 4 inches
- Height in centimeters: 193 cm
- Weight: About 235-236 pounds
- Position: Quarterback
- Jersey: No. 18
- College: Ohio State
- NFL team: Pittsburgh Steelers
- NFL Draft: 2025
- Draft round: Sixth
- Overall pick: 185
The Steelers’ official profile lists him at 6-4 and 235 pounds.
What happened in Will Howard’s NFL debut?
Howard’s debut was delayed because he did not play during the 2025 preseason.
That made his appearance against Green Bay especially significant. He finally stepped onto the field in an NFL game and immediately had a chance to run Pittsburgh’s offense.
Howard finished 7-of-9 passing for 86 yards. He also helped orchestrate a two-minute drive that resulted in a touchdown.
The performance gave the Steelers another encouraging indication of what their young quarterback could provide.
Will Howard stats today: What to watch next
Howard’s next opportunities will be closely watched because Pittsburgh has several quarterbacks competing for playing time.
The biggest question is whether his strong preseason opener can translate into a larger role.
For now, his latest official game line is 7 completions on 9 attempts for 86 yards, with no touchdown passes or interceptions.
The preseason is also important for Howard because regular-season opportunities may be limited if Rodgers remains the team’s primary starter.
Final thoughts
He has already answered one important question: he can perform when given an NFL game opportunity.
The Steelers quarterback completed 7 of 9 passes for 86 yards in his preseason debut against the Packers and helped Pittsburgh win 28-9.
Howard is 6-foot-4, wears No. 18, and was drafted by Pittsburgh in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
As the preseason continues, his playing time and performance will determine whether he can move higher in Pittsburgh’s quarterback hierarchy.
FAQs
Is Will Howard playing tonight?
No. Howard played in Pittsburgh’s preseason opener against Green Bay on August 13, 2026. The Steelers’ next listed preseason game is against the New York Jets on August 21.
What are Will Howard’s stats today?
In his latest game, Howard completed 7 of 9 passes for 86 yards with no touchdown passes or interceptions.
What jersey number is Will Howard?
Will Howard wears No. 18 for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
How tall is Will Howard?
He is listed at 6 feet 4 inches (1.93 meters).
Which NFL team does Will Howard play for?
Howard plays quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
When was Will Howard drafted?
The Steelers selected Howard in the sixth round, 185th overall, of the 2025 NFL Draft.
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