Pittsburgh Steelers rookie quarterback Will Howard may be on the injured reserve list, but he returned to Columbus to a hero’s welcome. The former Ohio State star attended the big game against Texas. Howard’s appearance was noticeable by all, especially his girlfriend, Skyler Skoglund.
Skoglund took to her Instagram story to share a proud moment. She posted a picture of Howard participating in a live pre-game show, where the QB stood in front of a banner that read, “DEFEND THE ‘SHOE,” referencing Ohio Stadium. In a simple yet sweet caption, Skoglund wrote:
“My shaylaaaa”
Howard’s presence quite clearly meant a lot to Buckeyes’ supporters as he famously led Ohio State to a national championship in the 2024 season.
Will Howard was FIRED UP after Jack Sawyer’s defensive TD 😤 pic.twitter.com/kv1QR6fTu8
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) January 11, 2025
Howard also broke a bone in his throwing hand during training camp in early August. The injury ultimately landed him on the Steelers’ injured reserve list. This places Howard out for at least the first four games of the 2025 season.

Will Howard Focuses On College Roots Amidst Injury Setback
Though his professional debut is temporarily delayed, Will Howard still connects into the success he had while playing in college. To see him appear at the high-profile Ohio State vs. Texas game is a testament to the passionate relationship he still has with the program he once led to success.
As a sixth round pick, he was destined for a developmental year; the idea was he would learn behind veteran starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Will Howard is BACK and ready to cheer on the Bucks 👏 😤#GoBucks pic.twitter.com/C2wrZbpAGu
— Ohio State Buckeyes 🌰 (@OhioStAthletics) August 29, 2025
During this time, Skoglund has been nothing but supportive. The couple appeared at the ESPY awards together, and shared moments from trips to the lake and from country concerts. Skoglund is a native of Minnesota and graduated from Miami University, so she has athleticism coursing in her veins, too.
Howard spent four years at Kansas State before transferring to Ohio State, but it was only a year spent in Columbus that cemented the legacy of his career. Will completed 73% of his pass attempts, for an outstanding 4,010 yards and an incredible 35 touchdown passes.
Read More:
- 5 Steelers Players Who Won’t Survive Roster Cuts Following Final Preseason Matchup Ft. Will Howard
- Will Howard 2025 NFL Draft: Scouting Report, Draft Projection, and More
- Shedeur Sanders vs. Will Howard: Comparing Colorado’s Superstar and the National Title Champion
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