Making the Case for Ohio State QB Will Howard as a First-Round Pick
When Ohio State clinched the national championship, it wasn’t just their storied program or high-powered offense that led them to the title—it was the dynamic leadership of quarterback Will Howard. Emerging as the unlikeliest of heroes, Howard’s performance throughout the season and particularly in the national championship game has made him a legitimate candidate for the first round of the NFL Draft. His progression from a backup to a national champion in the most pivotal position on the field is nothing short of extraordinary, and it demands recognition as a first-round talent.
While many point to Ohio State’s history of producing elite quarterbacks—such as Justin Fields and Dwayne Haskins—Howard’s path to prominence diverges sharply from those who came before him. He wasn’t a highly touted recruit but rather a player who had to fight for every opportunity. Howard entered the 2024 season with questions surrounding his ability to handle the pressure of a championship-caliber team, but he quickly silenced critics with his poise, accuracy, and football IQ. His leadership, though, would prove to be his most crucial asset.
In the national championship game, with the weight of the entire program on his shoulders, Howard delivered a performance for the ages. His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions stood out—he exhibited remarkable maturity for someone who had been thrust into such a high-stakes situation. Howard didn’t crumble under pressure; instead, he thrived. His decision-making was pinpoint, his arm strength undeniable, and his mobility in the pocket made him a dual-threat that defenses simply couldn’t handle. On the biggest stage, he didn’t just avoid mistakes—he made the plays necessary to secure Ohio State’s victory, throwing for over 300 yards and multiple touchdowns.
But beyond the stats, Howard’s greatest asset lies in his mental toughness and leadership. The ability to rally a team in adversity, especially in the most high-pressure moments, is something that transcends mere talent. Throughout the season, Howard was a calming influence, a quarterback who could command the huddle and keep the team focused on the task at hand. His leadership was evident in crucial drives, where he remained poised under duress and showed an uncanny ability to execute under the brightest lights.
From a physical standpoint, Howard is the complete package. Standing at 6’5” with a solid frame, he’s built for the NFL game. His arm strength is elite, able to make every throw required at the next level, from deep balls to tight-window throws. His footwork is consistently improving, and his mobility allows him to escape pressure when necessary—important traits for a quarterback in today’s NFL. He doesn’t rely on his athleticism alone, though; his football IQ and ability to make quick reads set him apart from many of his peers.
Now, some might argue that Howard’s success is merely a byproduct of the talent surrounding him at Ohio State. But that’s a simplistic take that ignores the larger picture. Yes, Ohio State has elite playmakers, but it’s Will Howard’s development and his ability to elevate those around him that turned a good team into a championship-caliber squad. He wasn’t just a game manager—he was the engine that drove Ohio State’s offense.
In short, Will Howard’s performance has shattered expectations. His on-field production, mental fortitude, and physical tools make him one of the most intriguing quarterbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft class. His performance in the national championship is a statement that he’s not just a product of Ohio State’s system—he is a legitimate NFL quarterback with first-round potential. To overlook him would be to ignore the undeniable fact that he is among the most complete quarterbacks in this draft.
