Aaron Rodgers has spoken very highly of Will Howard during the first days of training camp with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Now, after the rookie suffered a finger injury that will keep him out for the entire preseason, his new mentor dedicated a very special message to him.

“Yeah, I mean, it sucks for him for sure because he’s had such a nice camp as young player and then watching him in mini camp. Just seeing his command of the offense. But, this year is a growth year for him. It’s a year to watch and learn and obviously better himself. This would just be a minor setback for him.”

Mike Tomlin and the Steelers are counting on Rodgers as their bet to win the Super Bowl in the 2025 season, but the long-term future remains uncertain. Although all signs point to drafting a quarterback in the 2026 Draft, Howard had impressed during his first practices with the team and had established himself as a serious prospect to become the franchise’s next leader.

Did Will Howard get injured?

Yes. Will Howard got injured during training camp with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Early reports indicate that he suffered a fractured small bone in his hand. Despite the disappointment this represents for the rookie, Rodgers advised him to stay patient and dropped a very interesting hint about the player’s future. He’s possibly a long-term answer at quarterback for the black and gold team.

“It would have been great to see him get some live reps in the preseason, but, I’m not sure when he’s going to be back. Hopefully, he’s back in time to take maybe the second or third game. Either way, you know, this is a year for him to grow and learn and get his body the way he wants to get it and get ready to be the guy for a long time.”