Second-year quarterback Will Howard has received his share of praise from the Pittsburgh Steelers over the last couple of months.

GM Omar Khan has spoken highly of Howard multiple times this offseason, stating he believes in him as an NFL quarterback. First-year head coach Mike McCarthy has also raved about the former Ohio State star.

New offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio, who spoke to reporters Friday from the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex on the South Side, is the latest to praise Howard.

“I’ve really enjoyed Will,” Angelichio said of Howard, according to video via 93.7 The Fan on X. “He’s got a great personality. He’s been impressive in the quarterback room. Obviously we haven’t gone out on the grass with him, but his ability to communicate, articulate, pick up the scheme with all the guys and Mase [Mason Rudolph], it’s been really impressive.”

New Steelers OC Brian Angelichio on QB Will Howard: “I’ve really enjoyed Will. He’s got a great personality and he’s been impressive in the QB room with his ability to articulate…”

— Chris Adamski (@C_AdamskiTrib) April 17, 2026

With no Aaron Rodgers in the building, Howard has a real opportunity during the offseason program and the start of voluntary minicamp to take a step forward in his development, soaking up all the additional reps and teaching points with the QB room down a man.

Last season, Howard learned a lot behind the scenes as he recovered from a broken finger suffered in training camp. The injury sidelined him for the entire preseason and kept him on injured reserve much of the season, taking some of the pressure off him in his rookie season.

Howard assumed the role of assistant QBs coach in the room, taking on certain preparation tasks, allowing him to learn the game under Rodgers. Now, ahead of Year 2, the Steelers appear to have quite a bit of belief in Howard.

That might not stop them from drafting a quarterback next week, and if Rodgers returns Howard could find himself battling for the QB2 role with veteran Mason Rudolph. If Rodgers doesn’t return, there’s a chance Howard could see some playing time in 2026, giving him an opportunity to justify the Steelers; belief in him.

So far though, he’s opening eyes and impressing coaches and front office members.