Will Howard, Ohio State Draft Hopefuls, and the Search for the Next Buckeyes Starting QB

As the Ohio State Buckeyes prepare for another season of college football, the most pressing question on fans’ minds is: who will be the next starting quarterback? After the departure of CJ Stroud to the NFL, the Buckeyes have an open quarterback competition, and among the names circulating in the conversation is Will Howard. However, he’s not alone in vying for the coveted position. With several draft hopefuls in the mix, the race for the starting quarterback job is more intriguing than ever.

The Legacy of Ohio State Quarterbacks

Ohio State has a storied history when it comes to producing high-level quarterbacks who transition to the NFL. Players like Troy Smith, Dwayne Haskins, and Justin Fields have represented the Buckeyes at the highest level, but it’s CJ Stroud’s recent success that leaves a particularly high bar for future quarterbacks. Stroud, now with the Houston Texans, was a finalist for the Heisman Trophy and led Ohio State to multiple College Football Playoff appearances. His departure signals a new chapter for Ohio State, with fans eagerly waiting to see who will step into his shoes.

Will Howard: A Draft Hopeful in the Mix

Among the top quarterbacks competing for the starting role is Will Howard, who comes from a solid football background. While Howard’s name might not be as well-known as some of the other quarterbacks in the race, his journey and potential have captured attention.

Howard, a redshirt junior with significant experience at Kansas State, could bring a unique blend of skill and leadership to the Buckeyes. Standing at 6’5” and weighing in at around 230 pounds, Howard has the physical attributes that NFL scouts typically covet. His combination of size, mobility, and arm strength could make him an ideal candidate for Ohio State’s high-powered offense.

At Kansas State, Howard had his share of ups and downs, but he showed flashes of brilliance, especially in 2023 when he helped lead the Wildcats to a Big 12 Championship. Howard’s ability to make quick decisions, throw deep passes with accuracy, and manage the game has made him an intriguing draft hopeful. His time in the Big 12 has also allowed him to face top-tier defenses, a necessary step for any quarterback looking to make an impact at the next level.

However, there are concerns about Howard’s consistency. While he had impressive performances at times, there were also moments where his decision-making and accuracy were questionable. Moving to Ohio State would offer him a chance to refine those skills in a more prominent national spotlight, which could significantly boost his draft stock.

Other Draft Hopefuls and Competition

While Howard is certainly a name to watch, he is not the only draft hopeful on the Buckeyes’ roster. Ohio State’s quarterback competition will likely include several other talented players who have also caught the attention of NFL scouts.

Kyle McCord

One of the leading candidates to take over as the Buckeyes’ starting quarterback is Kyle McCord. McCord, a former 5-star recruit, has spent several years backing up CJ Stroud, learning under one of the best. McCord’s time behind Stroud has given him invaluable experience, and he has the talent to lead Ohio State’s offense effectively.

McCord has a strong arm, good footwork, and the ability to make all the necessary throws. He also has the poise and leadership qualities that are critical for a quarterback at Ohio State, a program that demands a high level of performance. His ability to manage games and deliver when the stakes are high makes him a solid contender for the job. However, his limited starting experience means there are still questions about his ability to perform under pressure, especially in big games.

Devin Brown

Another intriguing option is Devin Brown, a sophomore who arrived at Ohio State with significant hype as a highly rated recruit. Brown’s mobility and playmaking ability set him apart from the other quarterbacks on the roster. Known for his athleticism and dual-threat capabilities, Brown has the ability to extend plays with his legs and create offensive opportunities that other quarterbacks may not be able to.

Brown’s throwing mechanics are sound, and he shows flashes of potential as a passer. However, like many young quarterbacks, his decision-making and consistency can be areas for improvement. His ability to handle the pressure of being the starting quarterback at Ohio State will be a key factor in determining his future. Brown’s raw talent is undeniable, but he still needs to develop the mental side of the game if he is to reach his potential.

Other Candidates

Beyond Howard, McCord, and Brown, Ohio State has other players who could be in the conversation for the starting role. While some of them may not be as highly regarded or experienced, they still possess intriguing skill sets and could emerge as surprise candidates. It’s not uncommon for a dark horse quarterback to emerge from a competition, and Ohio State’s coaching staff will be looking for the player who best fits the system and the team’s needs.

What Will the Next Ohio State Quarterback Need to Succeed?

Ohio State has a long history of quarterback success, and the next signal-caller will need to live up to that legacy. The Buckeyes’ offense is designed to be fast-paced and explosive, with a heavy reliance on both the passing game and the running game. The quarterback must be able to read defenses, make quick decisions, and distribute the ball accurately to a bevy of talented receivers.

One of the key traits of a successful Ohio State quarterback is their ability to manage games in high-pressure situations. Whether it’s facing Michigan in The Game or playing in a College Football Playoff scenario, the next quarterback will need to be poised and ready for the spotlight. The ability to maintain composure under pressure is critical, and the Buckeyes’ coaching staff will be closely monitoring how each candidate handles these moments.

The quarterback also needs to build chemistry with Ohio State’s wide receivers, who are among the best in the country. With playmakers like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka on the roster, the quarterback must be able to deliver precise passes to these talented players in order to keep the offense clicking. The ability to read defenses quickly and make adjustments on the fly will be a determining factor in who gets the starting job.

What’s Next for Will Howard and the Buckeyes?

For Will Howard, the opportunity at Ohio State is a chance to elevate his game and improve his draft prospects. If he can win the starting job, he will be playing for one of the most storied programs in college football, and that exposure could go a long way toward boosting his stock in the NFL Draft. However, Howard will need to prove that he can be consistent and effective in the Buckeyes’ system, which is demanding both mentally and physically.

Ohio State’s coaching staff, led by head coach Ryan Day, will no doubt push all the quarterbacks to their limits in the coming months. The competition is expected to be fierce, and the decision will ultimately come down to which quarterback shows the best blend of skill, leadership, and poise. While Howard is an intriguing candidate, McCord and Brown will certainly be his primary competition for the role.

The Future of Ohio State’s Quarterback Position

As the 2025 season approaches, the Ohio State Buckeyes are looking to continue their tradition of excellence, and the quarterback position will be a critical part of that success. Will Howard, along with other draft hopefuls like Kyle McCord and Devin Brown, has the potential to lead the Buckeyes to a new era of dominance. The competition will be fierce, and while Howard has the physical tools and experience to make a run at the job, it remains to be seen if he can capitalize on this opportunity.

For now, Ohio State fans will have to wait and see who emerges as the leader of the offense. One thing is for certain: no matter who wins the starting quarterback job, the Buckeyes will be looking to build on their legacy and take another step toward a national championship.