First impressions in the Preseason are extremely valuable, especially for inexperienced players determined to make the roster. Each performance helps front offices evaluate depth before the regular season begins. The Pittsburgh Steelers have plenty of talent to review. A crowded quarterback room also adds more value to each snap Will Howard takes.
On Friday, the former sixth-round pick will start his first game as an NFL quarterback against the New York Jets. He must seize the opportunity without duplicating the mistakes Fernando Mendoza made on in his preseason debut.
A promising debut against the Arizona Cardinals last week gave the former No.1 overall pick confidence. He managed the game and showcased the poise and ball placement scouts raved about before the NFL Draft. But Mendoza's 97 passing yards and 62.5 completion percentage weren’t a ProBowl-level performance.
However, it was encouraging enough for fans to put more faith in the National Champion’s abilities. That was until Las Vegas’ second preseason showing.
Hiccups against the Houston Texans Thursday night quickly reminded Raiders fans of Mendoza’s rookie status. He played the entire first half, but failed to exude the same confidence and impact as the previous outing. His completion percentage fell to 53.3%. The rookie also watched his first career interception returned for an 80-yard touchdown.
It was hard to watch a promising star experience growing pains. But it would be even more heartbreaking to witness Will Howard fall into the same pitfall against the New York Jets tonight.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are gifting Will Howard the perfect chance to steal QB2 with an impressive performance
We’ve felt a buzz in the Pittsburgh air after an impressive performance by the franchise's pair of young gunslingers. And hopefully it stays a little longer. Mike McCarthy’s decision to showcase Will Howard in Week 1 was what fans were pleading for. And we received quite a show.
The former sixth-round pick managed the offense effectively. His pocket poise and awareness were evident. It resulted in an eight-play, 80-yard drive during a two-minute drill to close the first half. Howard earned a 77.8 completion percentage and a 106.5 passer rating. It was a beautiful start to a lengthy career.
But can Pittsburgh’s gunslinger improve results with more on the line?
According to McCarthy, Howard will start his first NFL game against the Jets Friday night. It’s a chance for the former National Champion to prove he’s an asset on a developing team. A strong performance would not only impress fans. But it could also lead to a possible promotion. With Mason Rudolph expected to sit, all attention will be on Howard and Allar. It’s the perfect stage for both gunslingers to show development.
And a great chance for Howard to make an argument for Pittsburgh’s QB2 role.
Currently, the Steelers have four quarterbacks on the roster. It’s a great insurance option if Rodgers experiences an unexpected injury. But also strips Pittsburgh of a crucial roster spot for another position. It would be nice to see Mike McCarthy’s staff carry a traditional quarterback depth entering the season. However, it requires tremendous trust in the men on the roster, especially since experience is scarce.
I’d personally prefer the front office to move on from Mason Rudolph and give Howard QB2. But if he duplicates Mendoza’s struggles, the promotion will fly out the window.
Tonight will be an important evening for Pittsburgh’s potential future quarterback. It’s a chance for Will Howard to establish a more permanent role on the Pittsburgh Steelers roster. I believe Rodgers’ protege will make the most of the moment. He’s been waiting for a chance to prove himself.
And I don’t expect him to fumble the opportunity.
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