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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.”

Rookie Will Howard embraces Pittsburgh's QB scrutiny — and its  pronunciation of his last name | TribLIVE.com

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.

Steelers rookie QB Will Howard just fine being under the radar | Pittsburgh  Post-Gazette

“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.

Why Big Ben's Return to Football is the Return of the Century – The Miner  Detail

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

  • 31/35 completions (88% completion rate)

  • 12 Passing Touchdowns (effective in both red zone and full-field drills)

  • 2 Rushing Touchdowns (showing improved mobility)

  • 0 Interceptions (big plus for ball security)

  • Steelers NFL draft deep dive: Will Howard's success at Ohio State wasn't  just about his talented receivers | Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

    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.

    Mason Rudolph has been 'awesome' for Will Howard in murky Steelers QB group  | Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

    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.

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    Steelers Work Out Saints Superstar 5× Pro Bowler & 2× All-Pro — Pending Medical Evaluation
    Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – As the New Orleans Saints sink deeper with an 0-4 record through the first four weeks of the 2025 season, trade rumors surrounding star running back Alvin Kamara are heating up more than ever. The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly showing “special” interest in the 30-year-old, with reports indicating they are preparing a major offer that includes arranging a medical evaluation to assess Kamara’s health before moving forward with a deal. This could be a huge boost for a Steelers offense lacking depth at running back due to injuries and Jaylen Warren’s inconsistent performance. The Saints are facing a full-blown crisis, from a porous defense to financial woes with a projected $21.8 million cap deficit in 2026. Kamara, still a central piece of their offense with his elite rushing and receiving skills, could be placed on the trade block in exchange for draft capital—likely a late-round pick or a pick swap. Analysts from FanSided and Steelers Wire highlight Pittsburgh as the “ideal destination” for Kamara, as he could immediately strengthen the Steelers’ backfield and help them contend for the AFC North crown while the Ravens and Bengals battle injuries. Kamara, who signed a contract extension with the Saints in 2024, has never reached 1,000 rushing yards in a single season, but his versatility (hundreds of receiving yards annually) makes him an attractive target for playoff contenders. Under GM Omar Khan, the Steelers have become known for bold moves, and adding Kamara could be a strategic step to support QB Aaron Rodgers and capitalize on weakened divisional rivals. The Steelers’ “special” interest is underscored by their plans to conduct a thorough medical evaluation of Kamara—a standard step in blockbuster trades given his history of injuries, including groin and ankle issues from past seasons. If cleared, Kamara could quickly step in as the Steelers’ lead back and pair with Warren to form a powerful one-two punch. Sources from SI.com and Steelers Wire suggest the deal may only cost a late-round pick, making it very feasible before the trade deadline. However, Kamara has previously expressed his desire to remain with the Saints and even holds a no-trade clause. Still, the team’s disastrous situation could force a change. Other teams such as the Chiefs, Chargers, and Broncos have been mentioned, but the Steelers stand out due to their urgent need and track record of pursuing AFC stars. If the deal goes through, the Steelers could strengthen their Super Bowl push with a bolstered offense, while the Saints would gain draft capital to aid their rebuild. Fans on X (Twitter) are buzzing with “blockbuster” trade proposals involving other names like WR Chris Olave, but Kamara remains the most talked-about piece. All eyes are now on the medical evaluation—whether it seals the deal or not, this could become one of the hottest trades of the 2025 season.