Steelers Star Will Howard Rejects $220 Million Cowboys Offer, Pledges Loyalty to Pittsburgh
PITTSBURGH, PA โ In a bold move that has sent shockwaves across the NFL, Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Will Howard has turned down a staggering $220 million contract offer from the Dallas Cowboys, reaffirming his loyalty to the black and gold.
The 24-year-old rising star, who led the Steelers to back-to-back playoff appearances and is considered one of the most promising young quarterbacks in the league, reportedly rejected the offer earlier this week. The Cowboysโ proposal, which included $150 million guaranteed and would have made Howard the highest-paid player in franchise history, was seen by many insiders as a last-ditch effort to bring long-term stability to the quarterback position in Dallas.
But for Howard, the decision wasnโt about money โ it was about legacy.
โI didnโt grow up dreaming about dollar signs. I dreamed about moments. I dreamed about wearing the black and gold and bringing championships back to Pittsburgh,โ Howard said during a press conference at Acrisure Stadium on Wednesday afternoon. โI appreciate the interest from Dallas โ thatโs a historic franchise โ but Iโm not finished building what weโve started here.โ
Howard, who transferred from Kansas State and was drafted by the Steelers in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, quickly became a fan favorite due to his poise under pressure and competitive spirit. After taking over as the starter in the middle of his rookie season, Howard posted impressive numbers and energized a Steelers offense that had struggled in recent years.
Since then, his leadership and chemistry with head coach Mike Tomlin have been central to Pittsburghโs resurgence in the AFC. The team is widely expected to contend for a Super Bowl in the upcoming season.
Steelers general manager Omar Khan addressed the situation briefly, praising Howardโs character and commitment.
โWillโs decision speaks volumes about who he is as a person and a competitor,โ Khan said. โWeโre thrilled he wants to be part of our future and continue what weโre building together.โ
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones also issued a statement acknowledging the quarterbackโs decision.
โWe made a strong, respectful offer because we believe Will Howard is one of the elite talents in todayโs NFL,โ said Jones. โWe respect his choice and wish him continued success โ except when heโs playing us.โ
Steelers fans have taken to social media to express their admiration for Howard, with many dubbing him โthe new face of the franchiseโ and a worthy successor to Pittsburgh legends like Terry Bradshaw and Ben Roethlisberger.
โLoyalty like that is rare in todayโs game,โ said longtime season ticket holder Elaine Mitchell. โWill Howard isnโt just our quarterback โ heโs our guy.โ
Howard is expected to enter the 2025 season as a leading MVP candidate and has already begun organizing offseason workouts with his wide receivers in Florida. For Pittsburgh, the message is clear: the future is bright โ and it’s staying right where it belongs
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