Steelers Decide on QB Will Howard’s Week 10 Status
Pittsburgh Steelers rookie quarterback Will Howard will not participate in the Week 10 game against the Los Angeles Chargers. The team placed Howard on injured reserve earlier this season due to a right hand injury sustained in August. Though he has returned to practice as of October 22, the Steelers have opted not to activate him before this week’s matchup.
Steelers’ Inactive List for Week 10
The Steelers announced their inactive roster ahead of the game. Alongside Howard, the team also listed defensive back Cory Trice Jr. as inactive. Both players must be activated from IR before they can play again.
- Guard Isaac Seumalo
- Wide Receiver Scotty Miller
- Safety Jabrill Peppers
- Linebacker Cole Holcomb
- Defensive Tackle Brodric Martin
- Defensive Lineman Logan Lee
This decision to keep Howard and Trice inactive was expected, as the team has an available roster spot. However, the urgency to activate Howard grows as the November 12 deadline approaches for his IR status.
Implications of Howard’s Status
If not activated by the deadline, Howard will finish the season on injured reserve. With a return to practice, there was initial hope he could see action in the Chargers game. However, Pittsburgh seems willing to give him a bit more time.
Currently, Mason Rudolph serves as the backup quarterback for the Steelers, behind starter Aaron Rodgers. Should Howard resume play, he will rank third on the team’s quarterback depth chart.
Impact of Injuries on the Team
The Steelers face significant challenges with several key players missing the game. Seumalo’s absence will lead to Spencer Anderson taking over at left guard. This shift could impact Pittsburgh’s offensive strategies, particularly in their ground game.
Defensively, the team will depend on safety Jalen Ramsey and Kyle Dugger, along with veteran Chuck Clark in the absence of Peppers. Linebackers Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson may see increased playtime due to Holcomb’s illness.
The Steelers will compete against the Chargers at SoFi Stadium on Sunday Night Football, with kickoff scheduled for 8:20 PM ET. As they prepare for the game, the absence of several players will put pressure on the remaining roster to perform effectively.
