JUST IN: 5-star quarterback Will Howard (6’4″, 236 lbs) has decommitted from the Ohio State Buckeyes and committed to Notre Dame, choosing the Fighting Irish over USC and Tennessee. Welcome to the Dame family!
Will Howard Decommits from Ohio State, Chooses Notre Dame Over USC and Tennessee
In a stunning turn of events on the college football recruiting trail, five-star quarterback Will Howard (6’4”, 236 lbs) has officially decommitted from Ohio State and announced his commitment to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. The highly touted prospect had long been considered a future Buckeye, but after reevaluating his options, he has instead decided to take his talents to South Bend. His decision comes after weighing offers from other top programs, including USC and Tennessee, but ultimately, the allure of playing for Notre Dame won him over.
A Quarterback of Elite Caliber
Will Howard has been one of the most sought-after quarterbacks in the nation. Standing at an imposing 6’4” and weighing 236 pounds, he possesses the physical tools that make scouts and coaches drool. His combination of arm strength, accuracy, and mobility sets him apart from his peers, making him an ideal candidate for any offensive system. Howard’s decision to commit to Notre Dame sends a strong message about the trajectory of the Fighting Irish football program under head coach Marcus Freeman.
Howard’s senior season at his high school solidified his reputation as an elite signal-caller. He threw for over 3,500 yards with 40 touchdowns while maintaining an impressive completion percentage. His ability to extend plays with his legs and make accurate throws on the run has drawn comparisons to some of the best quarterbacks in recent college football history.
Why Notre Dame?
Howard’s commitment to Notre Dame is a major victory for the program. Several factors likely played into his decision:
- Offensive Scheme and Development
The Fighting Irish have shown a renewed commitment to quarterback development under offensive coordinator Gerad Parker. With a pro-style system that emphasizes a balance between a strong passing game and a dominant run game, Notre Dame’s offense is well-suited to Howard’s skill set. The opportunity to be developed into an NFL-ready quarterback was undoubtedly appealing. - Historic Prestige and Academic Excellence
Notre Dame offers a unique blend of academic and athletic prestige. The university’s tradition of excellence both on and off the field remains a major draw for top recruits who seek to position themselves for life beyond football. Howard’s family has emphasized the importance of education, and the chance to earn a degree from Notre Dame likely played a role in his choice. - Marcus Freeman’s Vision
Head coach Marcus Freeman has been instrumental in reshaping Notre Dame’s recruiting efforts and overall culture. His energetic approach and player-first mentality have resonated with recruits nationwide. Howard has spoken highly of Freeman and his staff, citing their authenticity and ability to build strong relationships with players. - Opportunity to Compete for a National Championship
Notre Dame remains one of college football’s most storied programs, with a rich history of competing at the highest level. Howard’s decision signals his belief that the Fighting Irish are building a team capable of contending for national titles in the coming years.
Impact on Ohio State, USC, and Tennessee
Howard’s decommitment from Ohio State comes as a significant loss for the Buckeyes. Ryan Day and his staff had viewed him as a key piece of their future offense, and now they must pivot to other quarterback options. While Ohio State remains a powerhouse program, losing a five-star recruit at a premier position is never ideal.
For USC and Tennessee, missing out on Howard is a disappointment, as both programs were in the running until the final stages of his recruitment. USC’s Lincoln Riley has a strong track record of developing quarterbacks, and Tennessee has been making strides under Josh Heupel. However, Notre Dame’s persistence and vision ultimately won out.
What’s Next for Notre Dame?
With Howard in the fold, Notre Dame’s quarterback room looks incredibly promising for the future. He is expected to compete for playing time early in his career and could potentially be the face of the program for years to come. His commitment also strengthens Notre Dame’s overall recruiting class, which continues to rise in national rankings.
The Fighting Irish fanbase has every reason to be excited about Howard’s decision. As he prepares for the next chapter of his football career, all eyes will be on South Bend to see how this talented quarterback helps shape the future of Notre Dame football. Welcome to the Notre Dame family, Will Howard!