​Will Howard may not be in line to start for the Pittsburgh Steelers anytime soon, but one longtime football voice believes the rookie quarterback already possesses something that can’t be taught.Recently, Jon Gruden joined Steelers defensive anchor Cameron Heyward on his podcast, “Not Just Football with Cam Heyward,” and was asked about Howard. Gruden praised the Steelers’ rookie for the intangible qualities that stood out long before he arrived in Pittsburgh.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementHoward appeared on Gruden’s “QB Camp” shortly before the draft, and according to the host, he immediately made an impression.”Will Howard did, and I think he hit it out of the park,” Gruden said. “I think you see probably closer than anybody that the guy has the it factor.”Rather than focusing solely on Howard’s arm talent, he highlighted the leadership traits that often set successful NFL quarterbacks apart.”He’s got a very good charisma. He’s smart. He’s a great communicator. He’s got some talent,” he said. “I’m just hoping he gets a shot at some point with the Steelers.”That belief extends beyond Howard’s personality. The Super Bowl-winning coach also pointed to the rookie’s proven track record of winning at the college level.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement”But Will Howard, you know, he did it at Kansas State. He won the national championship at Ohio State. He’s got that winning aura that I think a lot of people covet,” Gruden explained. “And I’m just hoping one of these days he gets the call and gets a chance to showcase it.”For now, however, Howard’s opportunity appears to be down the road.When the conversation turned to veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, the interviewer joked, “Hopefully not too soon. We got to hope Aaron stays upright, right?”The response underscored the current reality in Pittsburgh.”Yeah. I think you guys better make sure of that,” Gruden chuckled. “But there’s a lot Will can learn from Aaron.”AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementHoward enters his rookie season expected to develop behind Rodgers, but endorsements like this suggest the Steelers may already have a quarterback with the leadership, confidence, and winning pedigree to capitalize whenever his opportunity eventually arrives.This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Why one QB expert says Will Howard has the Steelers’ it factor