Will Howard: A Rising NFL Prospect with Significant Potential

Introduction

Will Howard, the quarterback from Kansas State University, is making a name for himself as one of the most intriguing prospects for the NFL Draft. Over the years, the NFL Draft has seen a steady stream of quarterbacks from all over the country rise to prominence, and Howard’s trajectory is setting him up to be a key figure in the next draft class. Known for his dual-threat capabilities and leadership on the field, Howard possesses traits that could make him a huge selection in the upcoming NFL Draft.

This analysis will break down Howard’s journey, key strengths, areas of development, and what his potential selection in the NFL Draft might look like. While Kansas State may not be traditionally known as a football powerhouse in the same vein as some other schools, Howard’s performance has drawn attention across the nation, making him one of the more interesting prospects to follow.

Will Howard’s Background and College Career

Will Howard was not always the star player at Kansas State. In fact, when he first arrived on campus, he had to work his way up the depth chart and prove himself worthy of the starting role. Initially, Howard was seen as a raw talent with plenty of potential, but like many young quarterbacks, he needed to develop a greater understanding of the game, as well as the mental and physical aspects of playing at a high level.

Howard made a name for himself in the 2022 and 2023 seasons, demonstrating resilience and consistency in tough Big 12 matchups. His ability to keep plays alive with his legs while making precise throws downfield earned him recognition not only in the Big 12 but also from NFL scouts.

In 2022, Howard became the starting quarterback after the injury of Adrian Martinez, and he led Kansas State to the Big 12 Championship game, where they defeated TCU to claim the conference title. Howard’s leadership was crucial in the Wildcats’ success, and his performance during that stretch opened the door for his future as a draft prospect. His development continued into the 2023 season, where he solidified himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation.

Physical Attributes and Playing Style

One of the most intriguing aspects of Will Howard’s game is his size and athleticism. Standing at 6’5” and weighing around 240 pounds, Howard possesses the physical tools that NFL teams covet in a quarterback. His large frame allows him to see over the line of scrimmage and make throws from different angles, which is critical in a league where defenses are more aggressive and schemes are increasingly complex.

Howard’s mobility is another key asset. Despite his size, he moves well in and out of the pocket, capable of extending plays with his legs when the protection breaks down. While not as fast as some of the top dual-threat quarterbacks in the NFL, Howard’s ability to make plays on the ground adds another layer to his skill set. His quick decision-making allows him to escape pressure and gain crucial yards on designed runs or scrambles.

His throwing arm is also one of his most notable qualities. Howard can sling the ball downfield with impressive velocity and accuracy, making him a legitimate deep-ball threat. Whether it’s on a go route or a well-placed sideline throw, Howard shows that he can stretch the defense, a key quality for any quarterback aspiring to make it at the next level.

Strengths of Will Howard

• Strong Arm and Accuracy: Howard possesses an arm that can make all the throws on the field. His ability to throw deep passes with precision allows him to stretch the field and keep defenses honest. He also demonstrates a solid understanding of how to layer the ball into tight windows and make throws into coverage when necessary. His velocity on passes over the middle and to the sideline is impressive, and his accuracy on short to intermediate routes is reliable.

• Dual-Threat Capability: While not a run-first quarterback, Howard’s ability to make plays with his legs is another key factor in his success. He uses his mobility to extend plays, pick up first downs on scrambles, and even execute designed quarterback runs. This dual-threat aspect of his game makes him an enticing prospect for teams looking for a quarterback who can make things happen both in the air and on the ground.

• Leadership and Mental Toughness: Howard has earned a reputation for being a leader on and off the field. He is known for his ability to keep his team focused, especially in tight situations. His leadership was particularly evident when he stepped up after an injury to Adrian Martinez in 2022 and led Kansas State to a Big 12 title. The ability to stay calm under pressure and make smart decisions when the game is on the line is crucial for a future NFL quarterback.

• Football IQ and Decision Making: Howard has shown growth in terms of his football IQ. He is able to read defenses well and make adjustments accordingly. Whether it’s identifying blitzes, changing plays at the line of scrimmage, or simply knowing when to throw the ball away to avoid a sack, Howard’s decision-making has improved throughout his college career. He also demonstrates a high level of comfort in both pro-style and spread offenses, making him a versatile prospect.

Areas for Improvement

• Consistency: Like many young quarterbacks, Howard has occasionally shown moments of inconsistency, particularly with his mechanics and timing. There are times when his footwork will get sloppy, or his mechanics will break down, which leads to inaccurate throws. This is a fixable issue, but it will be a focal point for his development as he transitions to the NFL.

• Deep Ball Precision: While Howard has the arm strength to make deep throws, his accuracy on longer passes can sometimes be inconsistent. His deep ball needs refinement in terms of touch and placement, particularly when trying to hit receivers in stride. In the NFL, where pass-catching talent is elite, the ability to make pinpoint deep throws will be a necessity.

• Offensive System Fit: Howard has spent the majority of his college career in a system that has featured plenty of zone read and designed quarterback runs. While his dual-threat abilities will help him in the NFL, he will need to adjust to a more traditional pro-style offense in the NFL, where quarterbacks are asked to read defenses and make quick decisions under pressure. How well he adapts to this system will be a key factor in his transition.

Will Howard’s NFL Draft Projection

As we look ahead to the 2024 NFL Draft, Will Howard is emerging as one of the more intriguing quarterback prospects, especially among those not named Caleb Williams or Drake Maye. While he may not be viewed as an elite, can’t-miss prospect like some of the top quarterbacks in this class, he is likely to get a significant amount of attention from NFL teams looking for a quarterback with upside, physical tools, and the potential to develop into a starting-caliber player.

It’s important to note that the quarterback position in the NFL continues to evolve. Teams are increasingly looking for players who can do more than just sit in the pocket and throw the ball; they want quarterbacks who can make plays with their legs, extend plays, and challenge defenses in multiple ways. Will Howard fits this mold perfectly, and that versatility will make him an attractive option for many NFL teams.

Projected NFL Draft Selection:

Howard is likely to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 2024 NFL Draft, possibly anywhere from the 3rd to 5th round, depending on his performance in pre-draft evaluations. If Howard impresses at the Senior Bowl, the NFL Combine, and in private workouts, his stock could rise significantly. Teams with a need for a developmental quarterback or those looking for a reliable backup with starter potential may take a shot at Howard, especially if he shows marked improvement in his mechanics and deep ball accuracy.

If Howard can continue to develop his skills and prove that he can be consistent under pressure, his potential for success in the NFL is considerable. His ceiling as a quarterback is high, and with the right coaching staff and system, he could evolve into a starting quarterback in the NFL in the future.