Several Young Steelers Could Return After Bye Week
PITTSBURGH — The most recent draft class of the Pittsburgh Steelers is already making an impact as the team jumps out to a 3-1 record entering their bye week.
First-round pick Derrick Harmon has been an immediate contributor along the defensive line, while mid-round picks Jack Sawyer and Yahya Black have been impressive in small doses through four weeks. Two of their fellow draft classmates, however, have not been able to get their careers off the ground in 2025.
With the pending bye week and another week of preparation until their next game, the Steelers have the opportunity to finally get two of their most important rookies back into the fold. Sixth-round pick quarterback Will Howard and seventh-round defensive back Donte Kent are both eligible to come off the Reserved/Injured List and open up their practice window to return to the the 53-man roster.
The team hasn’t officially activated any of these players, but it’s a strong possibility that at least Howard and Trice return to practice with the goal of getting them in for their Week 6 matchup against the Cleveland Browns.
For Howard, it could be a step back in the right direction after his impressive start to training camp. The first-year QB had earned the third-string position on the depth chart before a broken pinky sidelined him for the initial portion of the season. The 23-year-old could now be in line to stick as the number three/emergency quarterback for the rest of the year and take a more active role learning under Aaron Rodgers and Mason Rudolph.
Defensive Back Help
Getting Kent back will be a welcomed addition for the defense. Mainly, having Kent gives the team another player they really like in the secondary. While superstar cornerback Jalen Ramsey recovers from a lower-body injury that could keep him out multiple games, another NFL-caliber defensive back will be needed to keep their rotation going.
Trice Could Return
Adding to that potential help is another young player nearing a return.
Cory Trice Jr, a third-year cornerback brimming with potential, has been recovering from a hamstring injury suffered during training camp. The 25-year-old is well-regarded by the Steelers but has only played in six games in his NFL career due to multiple injuries. Still, the 6'3" DB is a strong outside cornerback who, when healthy, has the length and speed to blanket receivers.
He is an immediate help and contributor if he comes off the IR.
Maxx Crosby Expresses Deep Respect for Caleb Williams: 'He's a True Competitor, and I Respect His Game!'
In a league as competitive as the NFL, respect between players is something that often gets overlooked. However, when two elite athletes acknowledge each other’s talent and work ethic, it serves as a powerful reminder of the true spirit of the game. Maxx Crosby, the defensive star for the Las Vegas Raiders, has shared some words that highlight this sentiment, particularly in response to praise from Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams.
Williams, a young quarterback known for his poise and remarkable skills on the field, recently gave Crosby high praise, calling him "the best player I've faced." In return, Crosby has expressed his respect for Williams, acknowledging the challenge Williams presents on the field.
"Caleb Williams is a true competitor. When he says that I'm the best player he's faced, that's a tremendous compliment. I respect him for how he plays the game, his determination, and his constant drive to get better every day. This is sports, and mutual respect is one of the most important things,"
This interaction between Crosby and Williams shows that, while the NFL is known for its fierce competition, players can still recognize each other’s skills and growth. Crosby’s words reflect his appreciation not only for Williams' abilities but also for the mental toughness and determination that are hallmarks of the young quarterback’s playstyle.
Crosby, who has been a dominant force for the Raiders on defense, understands the level of effort it takes to succeed in this league. For him, respect is earned through hard work, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. This is why Crosby holds Williams in such high regard, despite being on opposing teams. The acknowledgment of Williams as a formidable opponent speaks to Crosby’s own commitment to the game.
Over the years, Crosby has become a well-respected leader on the defensive side of the ball, known for his explosive plays, relentless pass-rushing, and high energy. His ability to disrupt the quarterback and make game-changing plays has earned him a reputation as one of the top edge rushers in the NFL. It is clear that, for Crosby, the ability to elevate your game and constantly improve is what makes a player truly great, and this is something he sees in Williams.
For Caleb Williams, facing Crosby is just one of many tests on his path to greatness. The young quarterback has already shown that he has the skills to lead the Bears, but as Crosby pointed out, it’s the mentality and commitment to continuous improvement that separates the best from the rest.
As the season progresses, this mutual respect between two of the NFL’s brightest stars will only continue to fuel their performances on the field. Whether they’re playing against each other or as part of their respective teams, both Crosby and Williams have made it clear that they see each other as worthy adversaries who push each other to be better.
