When evaluating a quarterback, most conversations begin with talent—arm strength, accuracy, decision-making, and leadership. But in today’s NFL, there’s another factor that may be just as important, if not more so: durability.

For Will Howard, this is where the real debate begins.

There’s little question about his abilities. He has shown flashes of potential that suggest he could develop into a capable starting quarterback. His physical tools, combined with his upside, make him an intriguing option for a team looking to build for the future. But as many fans and analysts have pointed out, talent alone doesn’t guarantee success.

The real concern is whether he can stay healthy.

This is not a minor issue. Across the league, some of the most talented quarterbacks have struggled with injuries, and the impact has been significant. Players like Joe Burrow, Lamar Jackson, and Tua Tagovailoa have all missed important stretches of time despite their elite skill sets. In each case, their absence has had a direct effect on their teams’ ability to compete at the highest level.

Super Bowl windows in the NFL are often narrow. Teams build around a quarterback, invest in supporting talent, and aim to peak at the right moment. But when injuries disrupt that plan, everything changes. Continuity is lost, momentum fades, and opportunities slip away.

That’s why durability has become such a critical part of the conversation.

In contrast, consider Aaron Rodgers. Even at 42, he managed to start 16 of 17 games—a remarkable feat that highlights not just physical conditioning, but also experience, awareness, and the ability to avoid unnecessary hits. Rodgers represents a model of longevity that many teams aspire to find, but few quarterbacks can replicate.

The comparison raises an important question: what separates quarterbacks who stay healthy from those who don’t?

Part of the answer lies in playing style. Mobile quarterbacks, while dynamic and exciting, often expose themselves to more contact. Extending plays, scrambling, and taking hits can increase the risk of injury. On the other hand, quarterbacks who rely more on pocket presence and quick decision-making may reduce that risk.

However, it’s not just about style.

Offensive line protection plays a major role. A quarterback behind a strong line is less likely to face constant pressure, reducing the likelihood of injury. Coaching decisions, play-calling, and even luck also factor into the equation. Sometimes, injuries are simply unavoidable.

For the Pittsburgh Steelers, this creates a difficult dilemma.

If Howard proves to have the talent to lead the team, do they commit to him despite durability concerns? Or do they prioritize a more reliable option, even if the ceiling is lower? It’s a classic risk-versus-reward scenario, one that every team must navigate when building a roster.

There’s also the question of timing.

Young quarterbacks are often more physically resilient, but they are also more likely to take risks as they adjust to the speed of the NFL. Learning when to slide, when to throw the ball away, and how to protect oneself is part of the development process. If Howard can improve in these areas, his durability may become less of a concern over time.

Still, the uncertainty remains.

Fans understand that championships are not just won by the most talented teams, but by the teams that are healthiest at the right time. A quarterback who misses key games—or arrives in the playoffs less than 100 percent—can change the entire trajectory of a season.

That’s why the conversation around Howard feels so important.

It’s not about doubting his potential. It’s about recognizing the realities of the NFL and the importance of availability. In a league where every game matters, being on the field is often the difference between success and failure.

Ultimately, the Steelers—and any team considering Howard—must decide what matters most. Is it worth betting on a high ceiling, even if there’s risk involved? Or is it better to prioritize consistency and durability, even if it means sacrificing some upside?

There’s no easy answer.

But as the league continues to evolve and the importance of the quarterback position grows, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: talent may get you noticed, but durability keeps you in the game.

And that leaves one question that could define everything:

In the pursuit of a Super Bowl, would you rather risk it all on a talented quarterback who might miss time—or settle for one who’s always available but may never be great enough to win it all?