Will Howard, Ohio State’s Next Quarterback, Set to Replace $112 Million, Ten-Time Pro Bowl Player
In the world of college football, few positions carry as much weight and attention as that of the quarterback. Ohio State University, a school known for its football excellence, is once again in the spotlight with the emergence of Will Howard, a highly touted quarterback who is expected to fill the shoes of an NFL legend. Howard’s journey to becoming the starting quarterback for Ohio State’s storied program is captivating, with fans eagerly anticipating his potential to lead the team to victory and greatness. This article delves into Howard’s rise in the football world, the expectations placed upon him, and how he is set to replace the massive contract of a $112 million, ten-time Pro Bowl player.
A New Era for Ohio State Football
Ohio State football has long been a dominant force in the Big Ten and the national college football scene. With a rich history of success, including multiple national championships and countless NFL draft picks, the Buckeyes have built a reputation for producing some of the best football talent in the country. However, the team is entering a new chapter in its history, and Will Howard is at the center of it.
The quarterback position at Ohio State has always been one of the most scrutinized roles in the sport. From the legendary performance of quarterbacks like Troy Smith and Justin Fields to the more recent success of C.J. Stroud, the Buckeyes have consistently fielded elite quarterbacks. Now, with the departure of Stroud, who was selected with the second overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans, Ohio State is in search of its next star signal-caller.
This is where Will Howard comes in. Howard, a former Kansas State quarterback, has transferred to Ohio State for the 2025 season with the hopes of leading the team to a national championship. His arrival has generated significant buzz, as he enters a program with championship aspirations, a passionate fanbase, and high expectations.
Will Howard’s Journey to Ohio State
Will Howard’s rise to prominence began at Kansas State, where he played for three seasons under head coach Chris Klieman. Initially recruited as a promising dual-threat quarterback, Howard quickly showed that he could excel as both a passer and a runner. He displayed poise in the pocket, a strong arm, and the ability to make plays with his legs when needed. During his time with the Wildcats, Howard helped lead the team to a number of impressive victories, including a victory in the 2023 Big 12 Championship game, where he was named the game’s MVP.
His performance at Kansas State caught the attention of Ohio State’s coaching staff, who were in need of a quarterback to replace Stroud. Although Howard was not as highly ranked as some other quarterbacks in the transfer portal, his experience and proven track record in big games made him an appealing option. Ohio State head coach Ryan Day, who has become known for his ability to develop quarterbacks, saw Howard as a player capable of thriving in the Buckeyes’ high-powered offense.
Howard’s decision to transfer to Ohio State was influenced by his desire to compete for a national championship and further his development under one of the best coaching staffs in the country. With a stable of talented wide receivers, an elite offensive line, and a strong running game, Ohio State offers Howard the perfect environment to showcase his skills on the national stage.
The Legacy of the $112 Million, Ten-Time Pro Bowl Player
As Will Howard steps onto the field for Ohio State, he is not just replacing a quarterback; he is stepping into a legacy. The player who left the biggest shoes to fill is none other than the $112 million, ten-time Pro Bowl player, the quarterback who had become the face of an NFL franchise.
While Howard is yet to make his mark in the professional ranks, the player he is expected to replace is already a household name in the NFL. This quarterback, who earned $112 million over his career and made ten Pro Bowls, has achieved legendary status in the NFL. His accomplishments are numerous, and his legacy is cemented in the annals of football history.
This player, now nearing the end of his career, had been the starting quarterback for a major NFL franchise for over a decade. His leadership on the field, ability to make clutch plays, and consistency year after year earned him a spot in the Pro Bowl in ten separate seasons. He was not just a statistical powerhouse; he was the heartbeat of his team, the player everyone relied on when the stakes were highest.
As time passed, however, the franchise began to look ahead, planning for the future. The aging quarterback’s contract was eventually renegotiated, and the team made the difficult decision to move on from him. Despite his age, the quarterback was still viewed as a valuable asset, but the financial constraints of his massive contract made it clear that a new era had to begin. The franchise needed to find a young, talented quarterback who could carry the team for the next decade. This is where Will Howard comes in.
Replacing a Legend: The Expectations on Will Howard
When you are tasked with replacing a ten-time Pro Bowl player who earned $112 million in his career, the expectations are understandably high. For Will Howard, the pressure to perform is immense, but it is also an opportunity to prove himself as one of the top quarterbacks in college football.
Howard’s biggest challenge will be to meet the high expectations placed upon him by Ohio State’s passionate fanbase, who are accustomed to seeing their team contend for national championships year in and year out. While Howard may not have the same level of recognition as some other top quarterbacks, he has shown the ability to thrive in high-pressure situations. His performances at Kansas State, including his stellar play in the Big 12 Championship and several high-profile victories, have demonstrated his ability to perform under the spotlight.
At Ohio State, Howard will have to navigate the intense media scrutiny, heightened expectations, and the weight of a program that has a rich history of success. The Buckeyes are a perennial powerhouse, and with a legacy of elite quarterbacks, Howard will be expected to follow in the footsteps of those who came before him. While this pressure can be overwhelming for many players, Howard has shown that he has the mental toughness and focus to thrive in these types of environments.
Additionally, Howard will need to adjust to Ohio State’s offensive system. The Buckeyes run a fast-paced, pass-heavy offense that has produced some of the best quarterbacks in recent memory. With a strong group of wide receivers, including top prospects, and a solid offensive line, Howard will have the tools to succeed. However, adapting to the system and learning the intricacies of Ohio State’s offense will be a key challenge in his transition.
The Impact of Will Howard on Ohio State’s Championship Hopes
Ohio State’s national championship aspirations will depend heavily on Will Howard’s ability to step into the starting role and lead the team with poise and confidence. While Howard has proven himself as a capable quarterback, the jump to Ohio State presents a new set of challenges. The competition in the Big Ten, along with the tough matchups Ohio State faces in the College Football Playoff, will test Howard’s skills and his ability to perform at the highest level.
However, Howard has the tools to succeed. He has a strong arm, the ability to read defenses, and the mobility to extend plays when needed. His leadership and experience from his time at Kansas State will serve him well as he takes over the reins at Ohio State. Additionally, the Buckeyes’ coaching staff, led by Ryan Day, is one of the best in the country at developing quarterbacks, which will further help Howard reach his full potential.
If Howard can live up to the expectations and lead Ohio State to another national championship, he will undoubtedly cement his place as one of the great quarterbacks in the history of the program. He will also have the opportunity to join the ranks of the elite quarterbacks who have thrived in the NFL, just like the $112 million, ten-time Pro Bowl player he is replacing.