Ohio State’s Will Howard Sees NFL Draft Stock Continue to Ascend
Ohio State University is renowned for producing elite football talent, and over the years, it has become a beacon for NFL scouts who are on the lookout for top-tier players. This year, one name that is steadily rising on the radar of NFL scouts is quarterback Will Howard. With a strong season under his belt and an increasing level of attention from pro scouts, Howard is making a compelling case for himself as a top prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Early Life and Background
Will Howard’s journey to becoming an NFL prospect is rooted in his upbringing and high school football career. Growing up in a football family, Howard was exposed to the game at an early age. His father, a former college football player, encouraged him to pursue the sport, and Howard quickly began showing his potential on the field. By the time he reached high school in Kansas, he was already a standout talent, gaining recognition for his strong arm, accuracy, and football IQ.
During his high school career at a competitive football program, Howard’s performance made waves, earning him several accolades and the attention of college scouts. After an impressive senior season, he chose to continue his football journey at Ohio State, one of the most prestigious programs in the nation. His decision was driven by a desire to challenge himself and compete at the highest level, and Ohio State’s history of producing top-tier quarterbacks, along with the program’s development resources, made it the perfect place for Howard to showcase his skills.
Transition to Ohio State and Growth as a Player
When Howard arrived at Ohio State, he was joining an already star-studded quarterback room, with several highly recruited quarterbacks competing for starting roles. Early on, it was clear that Howard would need to work hard to earn his place. However, despite the stiff competition, his skills stood out in practice. His strong arm, ability to make all the necessary throws, and quick decision-making helped him gain the respect of coaches and teammates.
Ohio State’s offensive system is one that requires a quarterback to have exceptional awareness, leadership, and execution. Howard quickly adapted to the system, impressing coaches with his maturity, poise in the pocket, and ability to lead the offense under pressure. By his second season, Howard was beginning to see more playing time and took advantage of every opportunity to prove himself on the field.
What stood out most about Howard’s development at Ohio State was his ability to grow mentally. Known for his football intelligence, Howard worked tirelessly with the coaching staff to understand opposing defenses and develop a deep understanding of the game. His preparation and commitment paid off during key games, where he displayed composure under pressure, making smart reads and putting the ball where it needed to be.
A Breakout Season
Howard’s breakout season came as he took on a larger role in the Ohio State offense. As the Buckeyes faced some tough competition in the Big Ten, Howard demonstrated his ability to excel when the stakes were high. His confidence and maturity in big moments garnered attention across the nation, and he became a key player for Ohio State. His performances against ranked teams and in critical moments showcased his NFL potential.
One of the most impressive aspects of Howard’s game is his arm strength. His ability to throw deep passes with velocity and accuracy is one of the reasons NFL scouts have taken note. Additionally, his poise and accuracy in the short and intermediate passing game make him a well-rounded quarterback who can excel in a variety of offensive schemes. Whether it’s making quick throws in the screen game or threading the needle on deep passes, Howard has shown that he can be versatile.
Perhaps one of the biggest areas where Howard has made strides is in his leadership. Throughout the season, he has continued to command the offense, making adjustments at the line of scrimmage and directing traffic in high-pressure situations. He has shown that he can maintain his composure and make plays when it matters most, a trait that is highly valued at the NFL level.
Rising Stock in the NFL Draft
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Will Howard’s stock continues to rise. NFL scouts have been impressed not only by his raw physical talent but also by his ability to improve year over year. The maturation process has been evident as he takes on more responsibility for the offense and continues to perform in critical moments. Howard’s ability to stay calm under pressure and deliver on big stages has propelled him into the conversation as one of the top quarterbacks in the upcoming draft class.
His success during the 2024 season, especially in key games against high-ranking opponents, only served to solidify his position as an NFL-caliber quarterback. NFL teams are always looking for quarterbacks who have the combination of physical tools and mental sharpness, and Howard appears to possess both.
Howard has also demonstrated the kind of leadership that can carry over to the professional level. His confidence, combined with the respect he commands from his teammates, positions him well to succeed in the high-pressure environment of the NFL. His ability to work with his offensive line, running backs, and wide receivers to create a well-balanced attack is another reason scouts are excited about his potential in the pro ranks.
One of the big reasons Howard’s stock has continued to rise is the growing demand for quarterbacks in the NFL. With several teams in need of a franchise signal-caller, Howard is positioned to be a highly coveted prospect. NFL teams that are looking for a quarterback with a strong arm, quick decision-making, and the ability to perform under pressure are likely to consider Howard as one of their top targets in the draft.
Strengths and Areas for Improvement
While Howard’s NFL Draft stock is soaring, it’s important to acknowledge both his strengths and the areas where he can continue to grow as a player. As mentioned earlier, his arm strength is among the best in college football, and his ability to throw the ball with precision and velocity is one of his key assets. His decision-making is also a standout trait, as he rarely forces throws into tight coverage and generally makes the right read on the majority of his passes.
One area that Howard will need to continue developing is his mobility in the pocket. While he’s not necessarily known for being a dual-threat quarterback, his ability to evade pressure and extend plays is something that can always be improved. In the NFL, where defenders are quicker and more aggressive, Howard will need to sharpen his ability to keep plays alive with his legs when the pocket breaks down.
Additionally, although Howard is comfortable under pressure, there are moments where his footwork and timing can be inconsistent, especially in fast-paced situations. Improving his mechanics and consistency in those high-pressure moments will help him thrive at the next level, where every throw is scrutinized.
What’s Next for Will Howard?
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Will Howard’s focus will undoubtedly be on continuing to elevate his game. He will be closely watched at Ohio State’s pro day, where scouts will have the opportunity to see him throw in a controlled environment, showcasing his arm strength and accuracy up close. Additionally, his performance in the upcoming bowl games will provide another opportunity for him to solidify his status as one of the top quarterbacks in the draft class.
Off the field, Howard’s preparation for the NFL will involve fine-tuning his mechanics, working with quarterback coaches, and studying film to refine his decision-making. As an athlete with a strong work ethic and a commitment to improvement, Howard will likely put in the necessary hours to ensure that he’s ready for the challenges that come with being an NFL quarterback.
For Ohio State, Howard’s success is a testament to the program’s ability to develop talent and provide its players with the tools they need to succeed at the next level. With a legacy of producing NFL-caliber quarterbacks, Ohio State continues to be a pipeline for future NFL stars, and Howard’s rise is just the latest example of that.