Ohio State’s Will Howard Declares Himself the Best QB in the 2025 NFL Draft: A Bold Statement with Big Implications

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, college football players around the nation are beginning to ramp up their campaigns to get noticed, and perhaps more importantly, to elevate their draft stock. Among the most intriguing and confident statements made by a college prospect this year is that of Ohio State quarterback Will Howard, who recently proclaimed himself to be the best quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft.

The declaration was bold, considering the competition he will face from some of the top signal-callers in the country. Players like Caleb Williams (USC), Drake Maye (North Carolina), and J.J. McCarthy (Michigan) have been heavily discussed as potential top picks for the 2025 draft. Despite this, Howard’s unwavering confidence in his ability to be the best quarterback available has turned heads across both college football and the NFL scouting community.

But what makes Howard believe he’s the best QB in a stacked class? Is it mere bravado, or is there substance behind his words? Let’s take a deeper look at Howard’s career, his skills, and how his self-assessment holds up under scrutiny.

The Rise of Will Howard

Will Howard, a name that might not have been as familiar to the national audience in his earlier years at Ohio State, has steadily built a reputation as one of the top quarterbacks in the country. He hails from Kansas, where he attended Topeka High School, and after a standout high school career, he joined Ohio State University. However, unlike many high-profile QBs, Howard’s journey has been one of gradual development rather than instant fame.

While his early years at Ohio State weren’t marked by starting jobs, Howard quickly began to show his potential when given the opportunity. A versatile quarterback with an excellent arm, Howard stands at 6-foot-5 and possesses both the size and mobility necessary to succeed at the next level. His ability to throw from multiple platforms, his poise under pressure, and his strong football IQ are qualities that have made him a favorite of many scouts.

Howard’s development in Ohio State’s pass-heavy, pro-style offense has been impressive. Under the tutelage of some of the best quarterback coaches in college football, Howard’s mechanics have evolved, as has his ability to read defenses and adjust on the fly. In a system that emphasizes quick decision-making and precision, Howard has flourished, showing that his potential can translate to a high level of success in the NFL.

The 2025 Quarterback Class

The 2025 NFL Draft is expected to be a loaded class, especially at the quarterback position. Players like Caleb Williams, who led USC to numerous victories and won the prestigious Heisman Trophy, and Drake Maye, who has consistently impressed at North Carolina, will be competing for top spots.

But it is not just the college football world that has recognized their talent—NFL scouts have been closely monitoring the growth of these quarterbacks, knowing full well that they could be selected with high draft picks.

In the face of such stiff competition, Will Howard’s statement might seem audacious. After all, Williams is widely regarded as the most complete quarterback prospect in years, with his combination of arm strength, poise, and playmaking ability. Drake Maye, similarly, has impressed with his deep ball accuracy, vision, and leadership qualities. These quarterbacks are often mentioned in the same breath as the NFL’s top-tier quarterbacks, and for good reason.

So, where does that leave Howard? Can he truly stand out in such a competitive draft class? Let’s dive into his skill set and what makes him think he can be the best quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Will Howard’s Strengths

Arm Strength and Accuracy

At 6-foot-5, Howard has the prototypical size that scouts love in a quarterback, and his arm strength is arguably one of his most impressive attributes. He can make all the throws required at the NFL level, from deep bombs to laser-sharp throws in tight windows. One of the most striking features of his arm is his ability to throw with velocity while maintaining excellent accuracy, particularly on intermediate routes. Whether it’s hitting a receiver between the numbers on a crossing route or placing the ball perfectly on a go route down the sideline, Howard has displayed exceptional consistency in his throws.

Moreover, Howard has been known for his accuracy on throws outside of the pocket. In today’s NFL, quarterbacks need to be able to move and throw on the run, and Howard excels in this area. Whether he’s escaping pressure or simply using his mobility to extend plays, he consistently finds targets on the move with precision.

Football IQ and Decision-Making

One of the key traits that NFL scouts look for in quarterbacks is their ability to read defenses and make quick decisions. Howard has demonstrated a high level of football IQ, making smart decisions and adjusting quickly to defensive alignments. In a pro-style offense, Howard has been tasked with reading complex coverages, and he’s often shown a knack for recognizing blitzes, identifying mismatches, and executing plays to exploit them.

His ability to make good decisions, particularly in high-pressure situations, sets him apart from many other college quarterbacks. While his contemporaries may have impressive physical tools, Howard’s ability to diagnose defenses and make the right read is what makes him a real threat in the 2025 draft class.

Mobility and Pocket Presence

Although Howard isn’t known for being a dual-threat quarterback, his mobility should not be overlooked. He has shown that he can move when necessary, keeping plays alive with his legs and, just as importantly, maintaining his eyes downfield while doing so. His ability to sense pressure and step up in the pocket has been one of the defining features of his game. At the NFL level, this kind of pocket presence is crucial for avoiding sacks and extending plays.

Additionally, his understanding of when to scramble and when to keep looking for a passing option makes him a valuable asset in a league that demands versatility from its quarterbacks.

The Confidence Factor

When Will Howard declared himself the best QB in the 2025 NFL Draft, he was met with both praise and skepticism. Confidence is a key attribute for any quarterback, but Howard’s self-assurance could also be seen as a double-edged sword. Some argue that such a bold declaration might come off as arrogance, while others see it as a sign of the type of mentality needed to succeed at the highest levels of football.

At a position that often defines the success of a franchise, quarterbacks need to believe in themselves and their abilities. Will Howard’s assertion that he is the best QB in the draft can be interpreted as a reflection of the kind of mindset he believes is necessary to succeed in the NFL. After all, players like Tom Brady and Peyton Manning were known for their confidence, and it was that confidence that propelled them to legendary careers.

What’s at Stake?

As the 2025 NFL Draft draws nearer, much is at stake for Will Howard. He is not only competing with some of the best quarterbacks in college football, but he is also setting the stage for his future in the NFL. Should his performance continue to rise, there’s no reason why he cannot prove that he is the best QB in this draft class.

However, Howard will need to continue developing his game and performing under pressure to solidify his claim as the top quarterback. His ability to perform in the 2024 season will be a crucial indicator for NFL scouts. The stage is set for him to show the world that his bold statement was not just a claim but an accurate assessment of his potential.

The Bottom Line

Will Howard’s declaration that he is the best quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft has certainly raised eyebrows and sparked conversation. It’s a statement that reflects both his confidence and belief in his abilities, and while it may seem audacious to some, it’s clear that Howard has the skills and mindset to back up his words.

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Howard will have the opportunity to prove his worth, and with the right performance, he could be among the top quarterbacks selected. In the end, only time will tell if Howard’s confidence will translate into success at the NFL level. But one thing is for certain: the draft class of 2025 will be one to watch, and Will Howard’s journey is sure to be a captivating one.