Steelers Offensive Coordinator Praises QB Will Howard

New OC Brian Angelichio impressed by Howard's communication and grasp of the offense

Apr. 17, 2026 at 5:49pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting a Steelers quarterback dropping back to pass, with the figure broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in shades of black, gold, and steel blue, conveying the dynamic movement and energy of the play.A new offensive system and a young quarterback's progression will be central to the Steelers' plans for the upcoming season.Today in Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Steelers' new offensive coordinator, Brian Angelichio, has expressed enthusiasm for working with second-year quarterback Will Howard. Angelichio highlighted Howard's strong communication skills and quick understanding of the team's new offensive scheme, despite the young QB missing time with an injury last season.

Why it matters

The Steelers are undergoing a significant offensive overhaul this offseason, with a new head coach, offensive coordinator, and quarterback. Angelichio's positive assessment of Howard suggests the team may be confident in the young QB's ability to lead the offense, even as they await a decision on the future of veteran Aaron Rodgers.

The details

Angelichio praised Howard's personality and his ability to quickly pick up the new offensive scheme during the team's offseason meetings. While the Steelers have not yet seen Howard in action on the field, Angelichio was impressed by the QB's communication skills and grasp of the offense. The Steelers will run a progression-based offense under Angelichio and head coach Mike McCarthy, with the goal of creating a 'quarterback friendly' system.

  • The Steelers will begin their first organized team workout on Monday, April 22, 2026.
  • Howard missed time with an injury during training camp last season and has yet to play in a regular season game.

The players

Will Howard

The Steelers' second-year quarterback who is expected to lead the team's new offense.

Brian Angelichio

The Steelers' new offensive coordinator, who previously worked with head coach Mike McCarthy in Green Bay and most recently with the Minnesota Vikings.

Mike McCarthy

The Steelers' new head coach, who will be calling the plays for the team's offense.

Aaron Rodgers

The veteran quarterback who remains unsigned as the NFL Draft approaches, and whose future could impact the Steelers' plans at the position.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I've really enjoyed Will. He's got a great personality. He's been impressive in the quarterback room.”

— Brian Angelichio, Steelers Offensive Coordinator

“Obviously, we haven't gone out on the grass with him but his ability to communicate, articulate, pick up the scheme. It's been really impressive.”

— Brian Angelichio, Steelers Offensive Coordinator

“You try to get concepts they are comfortable with. If the quarterback is not comfortable with something, we aren't going to do it. It doesn't matter what the plays are, it's about the training of the quarterback.”

— Brian Angelichio, Steelers Offensive Coordinator

What’s next

The Steelers will get their first look at Will Howard and the rest of the team on the field during their organized team workout on Monday, April 22, 2026.

The takeaway

The Steelers' new offensive coaching staff, led by Brian Angelichio, appears to have confidence in the development of young quarterback Will Howard, even as the team awaits a decision on the future of veteran Aaron Rodgers. The team's focus on creating a 'quarterback friendly' system suggests they are committed to building an offense tailored to Howard's strengths.