The Quarterback Conundrum: Beyond Arm Strength
There’s something about the quarterback position that turns every throw, every practice, and every whisper into a full-blown debate. Take Will Howard, for instance. Ever since the Steelers drafted Drew Allar, the narrative around Howard has shifted from potential starter to afterthought. But here’s the thing: football isn’t just about arm strength, and Gerry Dulac’s recent comments on Howard’s progress at OTAs are a refreshing reminder of that.
The Arm Strength Myth
Let’s start with the elephant in the room: arm strength. Drew Allar has it in spades—an A++ arm that’s hard to ignore. But what makes this particularly fascinating is how quickly we’ve written off Howard because he doesn’t match Allar’s physical tools. Personally, I think this is where we often go wrong in evaluating quarterbacks. Arm strength is important, sure, but it’s not the be-all and end-all.
Dulac’s observation that Howard’s throws are now indistinguishable from those of his peers is a game-changer. If you take a step back and think about it, this isn’t just about Howard catching up physically—it’s about his ability to adapt, learn, and improve. What many people don’t realize is that consistency and decision-making often matter more than raw power. Howard’s progress suggests he’s closing the gap in ways that matter most on the field.
The Comfort Factor
One thing that immediately stands out is Dulac’s emphasis on Howard’s comfort level. He’s not just throwing better; he’s throwing with confidence. In my opinion, this is where the real story lies. A quarterback’s mental game is just as critical as their physical abilities. If Howard is feeling more at ease, it’s a sign that he’s settling into the system, understanding the playbook, and building chemistry with his teammates.
This raises a deeper question: how much of a quarterback’s success is tied to their ability to stay calm under pressure? Howard’s size (6’4”, 240 pounds) already gives him an edge in the pocket, but if he’s now pairing that with improved mechanics and confidence, he could become a serious contender for the starting role.
The Preseason Opportunity
Dulac’s prediction that Howard and Allar will split 90-95% of the preseason snaps is huge. For Howard, this is a second chance after missing last year’s preseason due to injury. What this really suggests is that the Steelers are giving him every opportunity to prove himself. But here’s where it gets interesting: both quarterbacks are essentially starting from the same point in terms of NFL experience.
From my perspective, this sets up one of the most compelling quarterback battles in recent memory. It’s not just about who has the stronger arm or the higher draft pedigree—it’s about who can perform under the bright lights of live game action. A detail that I find especially interesting is how this competition mirrors the broader NFL trend of prioritizing adaptability and resilience over raw talent.
Beyond the Hype
What’s often lost in these conversations is the human element. Howard was criticized for his arm strength, but he’s clearly been working to address that weakness. This isn’t just about football; it’s about perseverance and growth. If you ask me, that’s the kind of story that resonates with fans and teammates alike.
Looking ahead, the Steelers’ quarterback situation could go in any direction. Will Howard continue to improve? Can Allar live up to the hype? Personally, I think the answer lies in how each quarterback handles the pressure of competition. What makes this particularly fascinating is that neither player has a clear edge right now—it’s all about what they do with this opportunity.
Final Thoughts
If there’s one takeaway from Howard’s progress, it’s this: never count out a player who’s willing to put in the work. Arm strength is important, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Howard’s story is a reminder that football is as much about mental toughness and adaptability as it is about physical tools.
As we head into the preseason, I’ll be watching closely to see how this quarterback battle unfolds. In my opinion, the Steelers have two legitimate contenders on their hands—and that’s exactly what makes this so exciting.
