Ohio State Quarterback Will Howard: Refusing to Be Defined by NFL Comparisons
In the world of college football, certain players rise to prominence not only for their undeniable talent but also for the way they handle the spotlight. Will Howard, the Ohio State quarterback who recently led the Buckeyes to a National Championship victory, is one such player. Despite his remarkable success at the collegiate level and growing speculation about his potential future in the NFL, Howard has remained resolute in his stance that he will not make comparisons between his current college career and the professional ranks.
A Humble Beginning: High School to Kansas State
Will Howard’s journey to Ohio State and national recognition didn’t begin in the limelight. Born and raised in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, Howard was a standout at Downingtown West High School, where he played quarterback for the Whippets. His athleticism and leadership abilities were clear, and it didn’t take long for recruiters from various top-tier college programs to take notice. Howard ultimately committed to Kansas State University, a decision that would shape the trajectory of his career in unexpected ways.
At Kansas State, Howard was initially a backup to Skylar Thompson, a seasoned quarterback with years of experience. However, injuries forced Howard into the starting role sooner than anticipated, and what followed was a period of growth, adaptation, and determination. Over his two seasons as a starting quarterback for the Wildcats, Howard amassed impressive statistics, including over 2,600 passing yards and 24 touchdowns. His adaptability, paired with his strong arm and ability to make plays on the run, quickly became his trademarks.
Despite his growing success, Howard’s time at Kansas State was also marked by a challenging Big 12 Conference that included teams like Oklahoma and Texas. However, the adversity he faced only served to further refine his game and helped establish him as a quarterback with immense potential.
A New Chapter at Ohio State
In early 2024, after his time at Kansas State, Howard made the decision to transfer to Ohio State University, joining the Buckeyes under head coach Ryan Day. The move was seen by many as a fresh start, and Ohio State’s powerhouse program provided Howard with an opportunity to play on the national stage and compete for championships.
Upon arriving in Columbus, Howard quickly adapted to the Buckeyes’ dynamic offensive system. Under the guidance of Ryan Day, who had coached some of the best quarterbacks in recent memory, Howard’s game evolved. With Day’s tutelage, Howard was able to fine-tune his mechanics, develop his decision-making, and elevate his understanding of the game.
In his first season with Ohio State, Howard led the team to a 14-2 record, throwing for over 4,000 yards and 35 touchdowns. His performance throughout the season was instrumental in the Buckeyes making a deep run in the College Football Playoff, eventually earning them a spot in the National Championship game.
The 2024 National Championship: A Crowning Achievement
On January 20, 2025, Will Howard’s leadership culminated in Ohio State’s victory over Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff National Championship. Howard’s performance in the title game was nothing short of spectacular, as he completed 21 of 28 passes for 280 yards and three touchdowns. Adding to his stellar performance, Howard also rushed for 50 yards and another touchdown, contributing to the Buckeyes’ 34-23 victory.
This victory not only solidified Howard’s reputation as a top-tier quarterback but also earned him the prestigious Offensive MVP award for the game. As he hoisted the National Championship trophy, it became clear that Howard had transcended his role as a mere transfer quarterback—he had become one of Ohio State’s most memorable signal-callers.
NFL Draft Buzz: The Rising Star
As the college football season came to a close and Howard’s name remained in the national spotlight, analysts and NFL scouts began to speculate about his future at the professional level. Many began to draw comparisons between Howard and several successful NFL quarterbacks, citing his impressive physical traits, leadership, and playmaking ability. Some scouts even predicted that Howard could be selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, joining the ranks of elite quarterbacks.
The media’s focus on Howard’s potential NFL future has been intense, but the quarterback himself remains focused on the present. For Howard, the idea of comparing himself to established NFL quarterbacks isn’t just irrelevant—it’s counterproductive. He has made it clear that he is not interested in drawing comparisons between his current achievements at Ohio State and the future prospects that may await him in the NFL.
Refusing to Make Comparisons: A Unique Approach
Howard’s decision to distance himself from comparisons to the NFL is an indication of his maturity and his strong sense of self-awareness. In interviews, he has expressed his desire to be known for his work at Ohio State and his unique journey to get there. While others may look at his potential NFL career and draw parallels with quarterbacks who have succeeded at the professional level, Howard is steadfast in his belief that each player’s path is different.
In one interview, Howard was asked about comparisons to players like Jared Goff and Will Levis, both of whom have been touted as future NFL prospects. Howard responded by saying, “I respect the success those guys have had, but my focus is on what I’m doing right now. I’m here at Ohio State, and that’s where my attention is. The NFL will take care of itself when the time comes.”
This mentality is emblematic of Howard’s approach to life both on and off the field. He recognizes that there will always be comparisons, especially for players of his caliber. However, he is more interested in refining his game, continuing to develop as a leader, and taking his team to the highest levels of success.
A Legacy Beyond the NFL
While the NFL Draft looms in Howard’s future, his current focus remains on what he can accomplish in college football. With Ohio State, he has already achieved remarkable success, and it’s clear that his impact on the program will be lasting. The National Championship was a crowning achievement, but it also served as a testament to Howard’s resilience, leadership, and ability to perform under pressure.
As the 2025 NFL Draft draws closer, Howard’s professional prospects will undoubtedly continue to be a topic of discussion. However, for the time being, he remains fully immersed in the task at hand—leading Ohio State to more victories and representing the Buckeyes with pride.
For Howard, the journey has never been about living up to someone else’s expectations. It’s about writing his own story, and he seems more than content to let his on-field performances speak for themselves. Whether he eventually reaches the NFL or not, Will Howard has already cemented his legacy as one of Ohio State’s great quarterbacks, and he isn’t in a rush to make comparisons to those who have come before him.
The Road Ahead: Focus on What’s Next
As Howard approaches the final months of his college career, one thing remains certain: he is not concerned with the noise surrounding his NFL prospects. He is focused on what he can control—his performance in practice, his leadership in the locker room, and his execution on the field. For Howard, it’s always been about the team and the here and now. This mindset has already carried him to one National Championship, and who’s to say where it will take him next?
Whether Howard finds himself selected in the NFL Draft or returning to college for another year, one thing is clear: he’s earned the respect of those around him. His refusal to compare himself to the NFL’s elite quarterbacks serves as a reminder that the journey is often more important than the destination. And for Will Howard, the journey is far from over.