Big Ben Criticizes Rookie QB After Camp: “Steelers Can’t Count on an Aaron Rodgers Quick Fix”

Pittsburgh, Tuesday Training Camp – At Steelers camp, rookie quarterback Will Howard has just delivered a practice performance that’s turning heads across the league. Completing 31 of 35 passes (an 88% rate), throwing 12 touchdowns, running in two more himself, and not a single interception, Howard was absolutely on fire. Scouts are raving, calling him perhaps the most prepared rookie QB Pittsburgh has seen in years: “Calm. Sharp. Confident.”

But for Ben Roethlisberger – the Steelers’ legendary QB with two Super Bowl rings – this is only the beginning. Immediately after practice, Big Ben didn’t hesitate to point out Howard’s mistakes: hesitancy in reading coverage, holding onto the ball a bit too long in the pocket, and a few timing issues with his receivers.

“It’s not that I hate him, so I criticize him. I see my younger self in this kid’s effort. I want to pass on my ‘secrets’ so he can go further than I did, and give back to the Steelers,” Ben told the media.

Scouts couldn’t stop praising: “Calm. Sharp. Confident.” But under NFL pressure, it’s the tough love from a veteran like Ben that will truly shape Howard’s future. Learning directly from Big Ben, Howard is starting to add the poise and grit that made Ben a legend at Heinz Field.

The numbers speak for themselves. Will Howard is putting together a dream training camp:

• 31/35 completions (88% completion rate)

But NFL greatness is built on more than training camp stats. Big Ben knows this better than anyone. Instead of heaping praise, Ben’s holding Howard accountable, pushing him to face real adversity. That’s why these honest, even harsh, critiques are actually pure gold for the rookie.

Steelers tradition doesn’t tolerate complacency. From Terry Bradshaw to Big Ben, the QB position in Pittsburgh has always been forged under immense pressure and sky-high expectations. Will Howard is on the right path: learning, adjusting, and improving every single day. Ben’s tough words are, in truth, a mark of respect and the legendary “Iron City” spirit.

Steelers fans, get ready: A Will Howard who can thrive under pressure, get tougher and sharper, might just be the next star in the making at Heinz Field.