Best 5-Star QB Will Howard Decommits from Ohio State, Flips Commitment to Auburn Tigers Over Bulldogs and Alabama – Welcome to the Family
In an unexpected turn of events, one of the nation’s top quarterback prospects, Will Howard, has made a highly anticipated and impactful decision in the college football world. Howard, a five-star quarterback, recently decommitted from Ohio State University and announced his commitment to the Auburn Tigers, flipping from the Buckeyes to join one of the SEC’s most storied programs. This shocking move has sent ripples across the college football landscape, especially considering the fierce competition from powerhouse programs like the Georgia Bulldogs and Alabama Crimson Tide.
The decision to switch allegiances is not just significant for Howard but also for Auburn, as the Tigers have managed to land one of the most sought-after recruits in the 2025 class, securing a top-tier talent at the quarterback position. The recruitment battle that has unfolded over the last few months has included high-stakes recruiting efforts, big-name programs vying for Howard’s signature, and plenty of drama. Now, after weeks of speculation, Howard has decided to be a part of Auburn’s future, and the Tigers are hoping to make the most of this monumental addition to their roster.
Will Howard’s Recruitment Journey: A Roller Coaster Ride
Will Howard, a 6-foot-4, 220-pound dual-threat quarterback from Kansas, has been on the radar of major college football programs for several years. As a high school standout, Howard showcased his talent with impressive performances on the field, earning national recognition for his athleticism, arm strength, and ability to make plays both inside and outside the pocket. His dynamic playstyle, combined with his exceptional leadership skills, quickly made him one of the most coveted quarterbacks in the 2025 recruiting class.
Initially, Howard had committed to Ohio State in an announcement that was met with excitement by Buckeyes fans, who saw him as the potential future leader of their high-powered offense. Ohio State, consistently one of the top programs in the nation, had become a recruiting juggernaut under head coach Ryan Day, attracting some of the best talent in the country. Howard’s commitment to the Buckeyes was seen as a major coup for the program and a promising signal for their future at the quarterback position.
However, as the 2025 recruiting cycle progressed, Howard’s commitment to Ohio State began to feel less certain. Throughout the past year, he began to take more visits to other programs, and whispers of a potential decommitment started circulating within the recruiting world. The recruitment of a five-star prospect is never a straightforward affair, and Howard’s situation was no exception. Several factors began to come into play as he carefully weighed his options.
Auburn Tigers: A New Home for Will Howard
In the midst of this uncertainty, Auburn began to emerge as a serious contender in the recruitment of Will Howard. The Tigers, led by head coach Hugh Freeze, made a significant push for Howard, and their efforts paid off. Freeze and his coaching staff, who have been known for their ability to develop quarterbacks and build successful offensive systems, made it clear to Howard that he could be the centerpiece of Auburn’s future. With the SEC’s fierce competition and the opportunity to play in a conference that boasts some of the most talented defenses in the country, the allure of Auburn’s program was undeniable.
Auburn’s recruitment efforts were spearheaded by the combination of a dynamic offensive system and the opportunity to play in one of the most competitive football conferences in the country. Freeze’s reputation as a coach capable of transforming quarterbacks and guiding them to success in the SEC played a significant role in Howard’s decision. The quarterback’s relationship with Freeze and his staff grew stronger over time, and it became evident that Auburn was a place where Howard could thrive and develop into one of the top quarterbacks in the nation.
In his announcement, Howard expressed his excitement about joining Auburn and becoming part of a program with a rich football history and a bright future. “I’ve always believed in competition, and Auburn provides an incredible opportunity to showcase my talents at the highest level,” Howard said. “Coach Freeze and his staff have shown me that they believe in me, and I am excited to be a part of this program and the Auburn family.”
Competition from Georgia and Alabama
Howard’s decision to commit to Auburn is all the more remarkable when considering the intense competition from other college football powerhouses, including the Georgia Bulldogs and Alabama Crimson Tide. Both programs are perennial national championship contenders and have established themselves as dominant forces in college football, making them formidable competitors in any recruiting battle.
The Georgia Bulldogs, who have established themselves as one of the top programs in the country under head coach Kirby Smart, made a strong push for Howard’s commitment. Georgia’s reputation for developing quarterbacks and competing at the highest level made them a serious contender for Howard. The Bulldogs’ consistent success in the SEC, as well as their recent national championship wins, made them an attractive option for any recruit, especially a player of Howard’s caliber.
Likewise, Alabama, under the guidance of legendary head coach Nick Saban, is always a force to be reckoned with in the recruitment game. Alabama’s recent string of successes, including numerous national championships and playoff appearances, has made it one of the most coveted programs for recruits across the country. Alabama’s tradition of developing top-tier quarterbacks and their ability to compete at the highest level added another layer of competition for Howard’s commitment.
Despite the allure of both Georgia and Alabama, Howard ultimately decided to join Auburn, a decision that shocked many but also reaffirmed his belief in the Tigers’ program and coaching staff.
The Impact of Will Howard’s Commitment on Auburn
Auburn’s acquisition of Will Howard is a monumental step forward for the program, especially in a recruiting cycle where the Tigers are looking to rebuild and reassert themselves as a dominant force in the SEC. Howard’s commitment adds significant weight to Auburn’s already impressive recruiting class, which is expected to feature several high-profile prospects across various positions. With Howard at the helm, the Tigers will have a game-changing quarterback who can lead them into the future with confidence.
For Auburn, this commitment provides a sense of stability at the quarterback position, an area where the Tigers have experienced some inconsistency in recent years. With Howard, Auburn will now have a quarterback with the potential to be a star in the SEC and beyond. The recruiting win also signals to other top recruits that Auburn is a program on the rise, one that is capable of competing with the best in the country and developing players who can make an impact at the next level.
Howard’s decision to commit to Auburn also solidifies the program’s vision for the future. Under Hugh Freeze, Auburn is building an offense that is designed to utilize the unique skill set of dual-threat quarterbacks, and Howard fits that mold perfectly. His ability to make plays with his arm and his legs gives him the versatility to thrive in Freeze’s system, and his development will be key to Auburn’s success in the years to come.
What’s Next for Will Howard?
As Howard’s commitment to Auburn becomes official, the attention will now shift to his development as a player and his transition to college football. The road ahead will not be easy—Auburn competes in the toughest conference in college football, and Howard will face intense competition from other quarterbacks within the program as well as top-tier defenses across the SEC. However, with his work ethic, leadership, and natural talent, Howard is well-equipped to make an immediate impact at Auburn and lead the Tigers to success.
For fans of Auburn football, Will Howard’s commitment is a cause for celebration. With a dynamic and highly talented quarterback at the helm, the future of Auburn football is bright. Howard’s flip from Ohio State to Auburn, in the face of intense competition from Georgia and Alabama, has set the stage for an exciting new era in Auburn football. The Tigers have landed one of the most exciting recruits in the country, and the sky is the limit for what they can achieve with Howard leading the charge.
As Auburn fans welcome Will Howard to the family, one thing is clear: the future of Auburn football is in great hands, and the Tigers are ready to make their mark on the college football landscape once again.