Will Howard: Ohio State’s Rising Star Poised to Turn Heads at the NFL Combine

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, all eyes will be on the NFL Scouting Combine, the premier event where top college prospects gather to showcase their skills in front of NFL teams, scouts, and coaches. Among the athletes making waves at this year’s Combine, Ohio State’s Will Howard is expected to stand out as one of the most intriguing and exciting prospects. Howard, a quarterback who has evolved over his time at Ohio State, has the skill set, athleticism, and raw potential to not only meet but exceed the expectations placed on him by scouts, coaches, and fans alike. As the NFL Combine draws closer, many are anticipating that Howard will turn heads with his physical prowess, mental toughness, and ability to execute under pressure.

In this analysis, we’ll delve into the factors that position Will Howard as one of the most exciting quarterbacks heading into the 2025 NFL Combine. We will explore his career at Ohio State, the key aspects of his skill set, and why he is expected to be one of the top performers at the Combine. Moreover, we’ll also examine how Howard’s performance at the Combine could impact his draft stock, and why he may just be one of the most intriguing quarterback prospects in recent years.

The Journey to Ohio State: A Quick Recap

Before examining Howard’s potential at the NFL Combine, it is important to understand his background and the development that has led him to this point. Will Howard’s rise to prominence as a top quarterback prospect is both a testament to his talent and his relentless work ethic. Howard joined Ohio State as a highly sought-after recruit, following a decorated high school career where he showcased his dual-threat abilities and made a name for himself with both his arm and his legs.

In high school, Howard’s leadership, football IQ, and on-field vision impressed scouts and evaluators alike. He stood out not only as a natural passer but also as an athlete who could make plays with his legs. After choosing to play for Ohio State, he quickly adapted to the demands of college football and learned from one of the best quarterback coaching staffs in the country. Howard’s ability to improve year after year at Ohio State has been one of the standout storylines of his career, as he honed his skills under the guidance of legendary coach Ryan Day and the Buckeyes’ coaching staff.

Howard has always been seen as a player with immense potential, but it was his growth during his time at Ohio State that has truly elevated his draft stock. By the time he hit his stride in his junior year, Howard was regarded as one of the top quarterbacks in the country, combining his physical traits with an improved mental game. He developed into a complete quarterback prospect, blending excellent decision-making with raw athleticism. His success at Ohio State, including his leadership in key victories and his ability to perform on big stages, has cemented his status as a potential first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

The Skill Set: Why Will Howard is a Rare Talent

There is no shortage of talented quarterbacks in this draft class, but what sets Will Howard apart from his peers is his rare combination of physical tools, football intelligence, and leadership ability. While other quarterbacks might excel in one area, Howard has demonstrated the ability to do everything well.

1. Physical Tools

Will Howard possesses one of the most impressive physical profiles for a quarterback in recent memory. Standing at 6’4” and weighing around 225 pounds, he has the ideal size for an NFL quarterback. His height and frame allow him to see the field with clarity and deliver passes over defenders in the pocket. His arm strength is another area where Howard excels. He has the ability to throw deep balls with precision and velocity, consistently hitting his targets on both intermediate and long-range passes. This makes him an ideal candidate for an NFL offense that requires a quarterback capable of stretching the field.

Moreover, Howard’s athleticism is remarkable for a quarterback of his size. He is an exceptional dual-threat quarterback who can make plays with his legs. Whether it’s scrambling outside the pocket to extend plays or taking off for a gain on the ground, Howard’s mobility makes him a dangerous weapon. His ability to move with purpose in the pocket, avoid pressure, and make accurate throws on the run adds another dimension to his game, and it will be a key feature of his performance at the NFL Combine.

2. Arm Strength and Accuracy

When it comes to arm strength, Howard has demonstrated the ability to make every throw required at the next level. He is capable of throwing with zip to all areas of the field, whether it’s an out route, a deep bomb, or a touch pass over the top of a linebacker. His arm strength, combined with his ability to throw with precision, will be one of his standout traits during the Combine’s throwing drills. Scouts will be paying close attention to how his ball placement fares in different throwing situations, especially when executing passes at varying distances.

Accuracy is another key component of Howard’s game. While he has the raw arm strength to drive the ball, he also displays a high level of touch and finesse. Whether it’s throwing a quick out route, a deep post route, or delivering the ball into a tight window in the red zone, Howard’s ability to throw with accuracy and placement on each throw will be a focal point in his performance at the Combine.

3. Football IQ and Mental Toughness

One of the most impressive aspects of Howard’s development at Ohio State is his football IQ. Quarterbacks who can process information quickly and make split-second decisions are highly coveted in the NFL, and Howard has shown time and time again that he possesses this trait. His ability to read defenses, recognize coverages, and make pre-snap adjustments sets him apart from other quarterbacks in his class.

At Ohio State, Howard often displayed poise in high-pressure situations, leading the Buckeyes to come-from-behind victories and leading his team with calm determination. His mental toughness and ability to perform when the stakes are high will be scrutinized during the Combine, but all signs point to him passing with flying colors.

4. Leadership and Character

While his physical attributes and technical skills are important, Howard’s leadership qualities are equally significant. He is known for his work ethic, his willingness to take on responsibility, and his ability to rally teammates. Coaches, teammates, and scouts alike praise Howard’s professionalism and his ability to elevate the play of those around him.

The ability to be a leader on and off the field is crucial in the NFL, and Howard’s reputation as a player who can handle the spotlight and lead his team with conviction will be a big plus during his Combine interviews and team interactions. His maturity and strong sense of character will help him connect with NFL organizations looking for a leader who can command a huddle and earn the trust of his teammates.

NFL Combine: The Stage for Will Howard to Shine

The NFL Combine is the ultimate proving ground for athletes seeking to make a name for themselves and enhance their draft prospects. Howard is no stranger to big moments, and his performance at the Combine will be closely watched by scouts, coaches, and executives from all 32 NFL teams. With his rare combination of size, strength, accuracy, and leadership, Howard is expected to put on a show in Indianapolis.

1. The 40-Yard Dash and Drills

One of the most exciting aspects of Howard’s Combine performance will be his 40-yard dash time. While he’s not considered a traditional “speedster” like some dual-threat quarterbacks, Howard has surprising explosiveness for a quarterback of his size. His 40-yard time will be one of the key measurements for scouts to assess his straight-line speed, which will be important for his ability to extend plays with his legs.

In addition to the 40-yard dash, Howard will participate in throwing drills where he will be able to show off his arm strength, accuracy, and mechanics. These drills will give scouts a better sense of his ball placement, velocity, and ability to execute various types of throws on the move. It will be in these drills where Howard’s talent and athleticism truly come to the forefront.

2. Interview Sessions and Mental Acuity

The Combine is not just about athletic performance but also mental aptitude. Howard will have the opportunity to meet with teams and undergo interviews to assess his football intelligence and decision-making process. Given his reputation as a high-character individual with a strong football IQ, Howard is expected to impress in these settings. His ability to communicate effectively and display leadership qualities during these interviews will go a long way toward solidifying his status as a top quarterback prospect.

How the NFL Combine Could Impact Howard’s Draft Stock

Will Howard’s performance at the NFL Combine has the potential to boost his draft stock significantly. While he has already established himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the 2025 draft class, a strong showing at the Combine could push him into the conversation for the top quarterbacks selected.

With the NFL’s increasing demand for dual-threat quarterbacks who can extend plays and make quick decisions, Howard’s skill set aligns perfectly with the modern quarterback position. He is expected to be one of the first quarterbacks off the board, and a strong Combine performance could make him one of the top five picks in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Will Howard of Ohio State has all the physical tools, mental toughness, and leadership abilities to be a future star in the NFL. As he prepares for the NFL Combine, all signs point to him being one of the most intriguing and highly anticipated prospects. With his impressive size, arm strength, mobility, and football IQ, Howard is primed to turn heads in Indianapolis and further solidify his status as one of the top quarterbacks in the 2025 draft class.

Whether it’s in his performance on the field or his interactions with NFL teams off the field, Howard’s journey to the NFL is just beginning. The Combine is only one step, but with his immense potential, it’s clear that Howard has all the tools to make a lasting impact on the NFL. Expect him to not only meet but exceed the expectations placed on him and to prove that he is ready to lead an NFL team for years to come.