Title: Top NFL Draft Analyst Ranks Two Former Ohio State Quarterbacks Above Buckeyes QB Will Howard

Introduction

The NFL Draft is one of the most highly anticipated events in the sports world, with analysts and experts providing predictions, rankings, and projections for the next generation of NFL stars. As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, one particular storyline has caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. A well-known draft analyst has recently ranked two former Ohio State quarterbacks ahead of current Buckeyes QB Will Howard, sparking conversation and debate among the college football and NFL draft communities.

This article will explore the reasons behind this ranking, analyze the strengths and weaknesses of Will Howard, compare him to the two Ohio State quarterbacks in question, and examine the broader implications of this ranking on Howard’s draft prospects.

The Rise of Will Howard at Ohio State

Will Howard’s decision to transfer to Ohio State has been a major talking point in college football circles. After spending his earlier college career at Kansas State, where he showed promise as a dual-threat quarterback, Howard’s move to Ohio State raised expectations for him to be the next great Buckeyes signal caller. Despite having big shoes to fill following the tenure of Justin Fields and CJ Stroud, Howard was expected to continue Ohio State’s legacy of producing top-tier quarterbacks.

However, Will Howard’s path to NFL stardom is not a clear-cut journey. While he has displayed flashes of brilliance, particularly with his arm strength and ability to make plays on the move, his consistency and decision-making have been areas of concern. The comparisons to past Ohio State quarterbacks and the pressure of competing in one of college football’s most prestigious programs have only heightened the scrutiny surrounding him.

The Two Former Ohio State Quarterbacks Ranked Above Howard

In a recent ranking released by a top NFL draft analyst, two former Ohio State quarterbacks have been placed ahead of Will Howard on the draft board. These quarterbacks are CJ Stroud and Justin Fields, both of whom have already proven themselves as NFL prospects and are highly regarded by NFL scouts.

CJ Stroud

CJ Stroud, the former Ohio State quarterback, was widely regarded as one of the best prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft. Stroud’s time at Ohio State was marked by his elite accuracy, ability to read defenses, and command of the offense. His performance in key games, including a near-upset against Georgia in the College Football Playoff, solidified his reputation as a top-tier quarterback.

Stroud’s strengths were clear: a quick release, deep ball accuracy, and the ability to perform under pressure. His decision to enter the draft was largely influenced by his consistent play throughout his final season with the Buckeyes, where he threw for over 4,400 yards and 44 touchdowns. His ability to perform in Ohio State’s high-powered offense, alongside his impressive combine performance, made him the second overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans.

In comparison to Will Howard, Stroud’s experience and success in a similar offensive system make him a more polished prospect. While Howard has the potential to develop into a successful NFL quarterback, Stroud’s demonstrated ability to make all the necessary throws and excel in high-stakes situations gives him the edge in this ranking.

Justin Fields

Justin Fields, another former Ohio State quarterback, entered the NFL Draft in 2021 after a stellar career at Ohio State, which included leading the team to the national championship game in 2021. Fields, known for his mobility, arm strength, and ability to lead Ohio State to big victories, was drafted by the Chicago Bears with the 11th overall pick.

Fields’ combination of athleticism and arm talent made him a highly coveted prospect, despite concerns about his development as a pure pocket passer. His time with the Bears has been marked by ups and downs, but his raw physical tools are undeniable. Fields has shown significant growth in his passing ability, especially with his ability to make plays outside of the pocket, and his performance in the latter part of the 2023 season has been particularly encouraging.

While Fields’ NFL career is still unfolding, his time at Ohio State has certainly given him a head start compared to Howard. Fields, like Stroud, showcased the ability to lead an offense that operated at a high level and demonstrated superior athleticism and arm strength. These traits make him a more attractive prospect than Howard, whose college career is still in its relative infancy.

Comparing Will Howard to Stroud and Fields

Strengths and Weaknesses of Will Howard

Will Howard possesses several traits that make him an intriguing NFL prospect. He has a strong arm, capable of making deep throws, and his mobility gives him the ability to extend plays and make things happen outside of the pocket. Additionally, Howard’s experience in a spread system at Kansas State and his transition into the Ohio State offense has helped him adapt to playing in high-pressure situations.

However, Howard’s journey has been marred by inconsistency. While his physical tools are evident, his decision-making and accuracy on intermediate throws have been questioned. Howard’s transition to Ohio State, where expectations are sky-high, has been a challenging one. Though he has had his moments, the level of competition at Ohio State demands perfection, and Howard has yet to fully prove himself in that arena.

The Comparison to Stroud and Fields

Stroud and Fields, on the other hand, have already demonstrated elite-level play in college. Stroud’s accuracy, leadership, and poise in high-pressure situations make him an ideal NFL quarterback prospect. Fields’ mobility and strong arm provide a different type of dynamic that is highly coveted in today’s NFL, where the ability to extend plays with the legs is increasingly valuable.

While Howard possesses some of the same physical attributes, Stroud and Fields have shown the ability to perform consistently at the highest level of college football. Howard’s lack of similar sustained success at Ohio State, coupled with the high standard set by past quarterbacks, places him in a more uncertain position heading into the draft.

NFL Draft Implications for Will Howard

The ranking of Stroud and Fields ahead of Will Howard by the top draft analyst has significant implications for Howard’s draft stock. As a former Ohio State quarterback, the expectations surrounding Howard are considerable. The Buckeyes have a rich history of producing successful quarterbacks, and Howard’s position within that legacy has raised the stakes for his performance.

If Howard can improve his consistency, decision-making, and accuracy, he could still be a highly sought-after prospect in future NFL drafts. However, the comparisons to Stroud and Fields will likely continue to haunt Howard until he can prove that he is capable of leading Ohio State to similar levels of success.

Howard’s draft stock will ultimately depend on how he performs during his final seasons at Ohio State. A strong showing could elevate his status, but the shadow of two former Buckeyes quarterbacks who have already proven themselves at the highest level will be difficult to overcome.

 

The NFL Draft rankings, particularly those that place two former Ohio State quarterbacks above Will Howard, are a reflection of both the current state of college football and the high expectations placed on quarterbacks at Ohio State. While Howard has the potential to develop into a successful NFL quarterback, the legacy of Stroud and Fields casts a long shadow over his journey.

For Howard, the road ahead will require continued improvement and consistency to prove that he belongs among the elite quarterbacks. The debate surrounding his draft prospects will only intensify as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, and the performance of both Howard and the former Ohio State quarterbacks will be critical in determining their respective futures.

In the end, Will Howard’s path to the NFL may be more challenging than anticipated, but with determination and growth, he still has the opportunity to prove the doubters wrong and carve his own place in the league.