In a dramatic turn of events within the college football recruiting world, five-star quarterback Will Howard has decommitted from Ohio State University, choosing instead to flip his commitment to Florida State University (FSU). This decision has sent shockwaves through the recruiting landscape, as Howard, one of the most highly sought-after quarterbacks in the 2025 class, was previously seen as a lock for the Buckeyes. The announcement has generated significant buzz, especially as it comes after prolonged interest from other top-tier programs, including the University of Georgia Bulldogs and the University of Alabama Crimson Tide. Howard’s flip has implications not only for the programs involved but also for the larger recruiting trends within college football.
Will Howard, originally from Clemson, South Carolina, is a rare talent. Standing tall at 6-foot-4, with a rocket arm and an impressive football IQ, Howard has been a standout figure in the 2025 recruiting cycle. His skill set has drawn comparisons to some of the best quarterbacks in the country, and it’s no surprise that he was heavily pursued by multiple elite programs. Howard’s ability to read defenses, his smooth mechanics, and his poise in the pocket make him an ideal candidate for the next generation of college football stars. His recruitment, however, wasn’t always a foregone conclusion.
Howard initially committed to Ohio State in the early stages of his recruitment. At the time, it seemed like a perfect fit. Ohio State has become a powerhouse in college football, consistently competing for national championships and developing top-tier quarterbacks. The program’s track record, combined with the opportunity to play for a coaching staff led by Ryan Day, an offensive-minded head coach known for producing elite quarterbacks, made it an attractive destination for Howard. Buckeyes fans and analysts alike were thrilled when Howard made the announcement, believing that he would continue the program’s tradition of top-flight quarterback play.
However, as is often the case with high-profile recruits, things began to shift. Over time, Howard found himself re-evaluating his options. As the recruiting process evolved, so did his preferences. He was drawn to the idea of playing in a system that allowed for his talents to truly shine, and he began to take a closer look at the programs that were pursuing him. Among these, Florida State stood out. The Seminoles, under the leadership of head coach Mike Norvell, had been quietly building momentum, and Howard became increasingly intrigued by their vision for the future.
Florida State, which had endured a period of rebuilding, had begun to show signs of resurgence. The team had made significant strides in recent years, culminating in a strong 2024 season that saw the Seminoles back in the national conversation. Norvell’s vision for the future of the program, combined with his track record of developing talent and his ability to build a dynamic offense, was appealing to Howard. Unlike Ohio State, which has been known for its high-powered spread offense, Florida State offered Howard the chance to play in a more balanced, pro-style system that could showcase his skills as both a passer and a leader.
The allure of playing in a program on the rise, with the potential for immediate playing time, was enough to sway Howard’s decision. As the buzz around his commitment to Florida State grew, other programs, most notably Georgia and Alabama, continued to pursue him aggressively. Both the Bulldogs and the Crimson Tide had strong recruiting classes in place and were eager to add Howard to their quarterback rooms. Georgia, coming off back-to-back national championships, was a particularly strong contender. Head coach Kirby Smart had built one of the most dominant teams in college football, and the opportunity to play for such a successful program was enticing.
Alabama, under the legendary Nick Saban, also represented a formidable challenge. The Crimson Tide’s track record of success, particularly with quarterbacks, has been impressive. Saban has developed some of the best quarterbacks in college football history, and Howard would have had the opportunity to follow in their footsteps. However, despite the appeal of playing for two of the most prestigious programs in the country, Howard ultimately decided that Florida State offered the best fit for him, both in terms of playing style and the chance to help elevate a program that was on the rise.
The decision to flip his commitment from Ohio State to Florida State was not made lightly. Howard’s decommitment from the Buckeyes was a significant move, one that could have lasting implications for both programs. For Ohio State, losing a top-tier quarterback recruit is a setback, but the Buckeyes are no strangers to the recruiting grind and will undoubtedly bounce back with another talented quarterback prospect. Ohio State has long been a destination for elite quarterbacks, and while Howard’s decision stings, the program’s tradition of success means that they will continue to attract top talent.
For Florida State, landing Howard is a game-changing moment. The Seminoles have been on the rise under Norvell’s leadership, and securing a player of Howard’s caliber further solidifies their standing as one of the premier programs in college football. Howard’s commitment has the potential to be a turning point for the Seminoles, as his presence at quarterback could be the catalyst for a run of success that elevates the program back to national prominence. Howard’s ability to make all the throws and lead an offense is exactly what Florida State needs to take the next step forward, and his addition will undoubtedly attract more talent to Tallahassee.
The implications of Howard’s commitment to FSU are not limited to the immediate future. In the broader context of college football recruiting, Howard’s decision underscores the increasing importance of player fit and program culture. While top-tier programs like Ohio State, Georgia, and Alabama will always be in the mix for the best recruits, players like Howard are becoming more discerning in their choices. They are no longer simply looking for a program with a great track record—they are seeking programs where they feel they can thrive both on and off the field. Howard’s decision to flip to Florida State, a program that is rebuilding but has shown significant promise, is a testament to the growing trend of recruits choosing programs based on fit and long-term development rather than just immediate success.
Looking ahead, Howard’s commitment to Florida State could have far-reaching effects on the Seminoles’ recruiting efforts. With Howard as the face of their 2025 recruiting class, FSU could attract more high-profile players looking to be part of a program on the rise. Howard’s ability to recruit other top talent to Tallahassee will be crucial, and if the Seminoles can build around him, they could soon be competing for national championships once again.
As Howard prepares for his future at Florida State, the college football world will be watching closely. His decision to flip from Ohio State to FSU has already changed the recruiting landscape, and it’s clear that his impact will be felt not only in the 2025 season but for years to come. Florida State’s commitment to rebuilding their program is now bolstered by one of the nation’s best quarterbacks, and with Howard at the helm, the Seminoles are poised to make a splash on the national stage once again. As the recruiting process continues to evolve, players like Will Howard will continue to shape the future of college football, and his decision to commit to Florida State is a clear indication that the landscape is shifting in exciting and unpredictable ways.