Steelers’ QB Crossroads: The Rise of Ty Simpson and the Looming Questions for Will Howard
The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves at a fascinating quarterback juncture. While optimism surrounds sixth-round pick Will Howard, fueled by praise from General Manager Omar Khan, the potential arrival of a prospect like Alabama’s Ty Simpson throws a wrench into the long-term plans. This isn’t just about two players; it’s a microcosm of how NFL teams are increasingly balancing potential with proven, albeit late-round, talent.
The Howard Hype: A Sixth-Rounder’s Opportunity
Howard’s story is compelling. A late-round selection, he’s already generating buzz as a potential starter, especially if the rumored pursuit of a veteran like Aaron Rodgers doesn’t materialize. His performance in the playoffs against Oklahoma, overcoming a 17-point deficit, showcased a resilience that appeals to coaches like Mike McCarthy. However, context is crucial. Howard’s college season wasn’t without its challenges – an inconsistent offensive line and a struggling running game certainly played a role.
Pro Tip: Don’t underestimate the impact of surrounding talent. A quarterback’s success is rarely solely attributable to their individual skill.
Ty Simpson: The First-Round Intrigue
Analyst Louis Riddick isn’t alone in believing Simpson represents a significant upgrade over Howard. Riddick’s assessment – that they aren’t even in the same “stratosphere” as passers – is blunt, but reflects a growing sentiment among NFL scouts. Simpson’s early season dominance at Alabama, with 21 touchdowns to just one interception in his first nine games, painted a picture of a potential franchise quarterback.
The NFL’s increasing emphasis on passing efficiency makes quarterbacks with Simpson’s initial stats incredibly valuable. Consider the recent success of quarterbacks drafted high based on similar early collegiate production – Patrick Mahomes (10th 2017) and Justin Herbert (6th 2020) are prime examples. However, Simpson’s late-season struggles due to injury and illness introduce a layer of risk.
The Draft Day Dilemma: Investment vs. Development
The Steelers’ draft position at 21st overall is key. If Simpson is available, the team faces a critical decision. Spending a first-round pick on a quarterback signals a belief in immediate potential and a long-term commitment. This would undoubtedly diminish Howard’s chances of becoming the Steelers’ long-term solution.
We’ve seen this play out before. The Detroit Lions drafted Jared Goff with the first overall pick in 2016, effectively ending any realistic opportunity for their existing quarterbacks to establish themselves. Similarly, the Chicago Bears traded up to draft Justin Fields, signaling a clear shift in their quarterback strategy.
The Changing Landscape of QB Evaluation
The NFL’s evaluation of quarterbacks is evolving. Historically, teams prioritized arm strength and size. Now, accuracy, decision-making, and the ability to process information quickly are paramount. This shift explains why a player like Simpson, with his initial statistical success, is generating so much buzz.
Did you know? The average NFL quarterback’s career length is just under five years, highlighting the importance of finding the right fit and developing talent effectively.
The Risk of Reaching: Lessons from the Past
While the allure of a high-potential quarterback is strong, teams must avoid “reaching” for a prospect. The history of the NFL is littered with quarterbacks drafted too high who failed to live up to expectations. Ryan Leaf, taken second overall in 1998, remains a cautionary tale.
However, sometimes, NFL evaluators *do* miss on late-round gems. Tom Brady, famously drafted 199th is the ultimate example. Howard’s situation presents a similar, albeit less dramatic, narrative.
Future Trends: The Rise of Analytical QB Scouting
The Steelers’ decision will likely be informed by increasingly sophisticated analytical tools. Teams are now using data to assess quarterback performance beyond traditional statistics, focusing on metrics like completion percentage under pressure, time to throw, and accuracy on intermediate routes.
This data-driven approach is changing the way quarterbacks are evaluated and drafted. It’s also leading to a greater emphasis on quarterback coaching and development. Teams are investing heavily in resources to help quarterbacks maximize their potential.
FAQ
Q: Is Will Howard likely to start for the Steelers in 2026?
A: It’s possible, especially if the Steelers don’t acquire a veteran or draft a quarterback highly.
Q: What are Ty Simpson’s biggest weaknesses?
A: His limited starting experience and late-season struggles due to injury are concerns.
Q: How important is the offensive line to a quarterback’s success?
A: Extremely important. A poor offensive line can significantly hinder a quarterback’s performance.
Q: Will the Steelers trade up in the draft for a quarterback?
A: It’s a possibility, but depends on how highly they value a particular prospect.
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