Will Howard NFL Draft 2025 Scouting Report For Ohio State QB

Will Howard‘s NFL Draft stock is on the rise for 2025. He has emerged as a top quarterback prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, showcasing impressive potential with his strong arm and leadership on the field. As the draft approaches, Howard’s ability to read defenses, deliver accurate throws, and lead his team makes him one of the most intriguing quarterbacks in this class, with the potential for a significant impact at the next level. Stay tuned for an in-depth look at his strengths and areas of growth as his draft journey unfolds.

Will Howard 2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Howard enters the 2025 NFL Draft as a battle-tested quarterback with a compelling blend of size, experience, and clutch performance. After four years at Kansas State, where he evolved from a raw dual-threat talent into a reliable starter, Howard transferred to Ohio State for his final collegiate season. There, he flourished in a talent-rich environment, leading the Buckeyes to a national championship in 2024 and earning Offensive MVP honors in the title game. At 23 years old (turning 24 early in his rookie NFL season), Howard brings a polished skill set but faces questions about his ceiling in a league that demands elite processing and arm talent from its top passers.

HT: 6042
WT: 236
HAND: 900
ARM: 3200
40: 4.68

Strengths:

• Prototypical Build and Durability: Howard’s 6’4”, 236-pound frame is ideal for an NFL pocket passer. He’s shown toughness, standing tall under pressure and absorbing hits while maintaining composure. His size aids his ability to see over the line and shrug off arm tackles on designed runs.
• Pocket Presence and Mobility: While not a burner, Howard’s functional athleticism shines in and out of the pocket. He’s adept at sliding to avoid pressure, extending plays with his legs, and picking up key yards in short-yardage situations (7 rushing TDs in 2024). His 73.2% adjusted completion rate under pressure in 2024 ranked among the best in his draft class.
• Pre-Snap Awareness: Howard’s experience shines in his ability to read defenses pre-snap. At Ohio State, he consistently identified favorable matchups and got the ball out quickly to playmakers, a testament to his football IQ and preparation.
• Accuracy on Rhythm Throws: When in sync, Howard delivers with good ball placement on short-to-intermediate routes (0-15 yards). He excels at layering throws over linebackers and hitting receivers in stride, especially off play-action. His 73% completion rate in 2024 reflects this consistency.
• Clutch Performer: Howard’s playoff run—culminating in a near-perfect national championship game—highlights his ability to elevate his game when it matters most. He’s a leader who thrives in high-stakes moments, a trait that translates to the NFL.

Areas for Improvement:

• Overall Arm Talent: Howard’s arm strength is solid but not elite. He can drive the ball downfield and into tight windows, but his throws lack the zip to challenge NFL-caliber secondaries on deep outs or sideline shots consistently. Timing must be pristine to compensate.
• Progression Processing: In Ohio State’s QB-friendly offense, Howard leaned heavily on first-read throws and RPOs. His ability to work through full-field progressions remains unproven, as he occasionally locks onto targets, inviting coverage to jump routes.
• Inconsistent Mechanics: Howard’s footwork can get choppy under duress, leading to erratic throws. He tends to drift backward rather than step up, and his base narrows at times, sapping velocity and accuracy. These habits were less exposed with Ohio State’s elite line but could be magnified in the pros.
• Age and Upside: At 24 as a rookie, Howard is older than most prospects in this class. While his experience is a plus, his physical tools suggest a lower developmental ceiling compared to younger, more dynamic QBs.
• System Beneficiary: Surrounded by All-American talent (e.g., Emeka Egbuka, Jeremiah Smith), Howard’s gaudy 2024 stats (4,010 yards, 35 TDs) may overstate his individual impact. His Kansas State tape (61.3% completion in 2023) offers a more grounded view of his baseline ability.

Conclusion:

Howard’s journey from Kansas State’s gritty dual-threat to Ohio State’s championship conductor showcases his adaptability and leadership. He’s not a flashy prospect, but his intangibles and polish give him a clear path to an NFL career. Howard could exceed expectations as a dependable pro if he lands with a patient staff willing to refine his mechanics and processing. For now, he’s a low-risk, moderate-reward pick in a thin 2025 QB class.

Howard profiles as a high-end backup with spot-starter potential in the NFL. His size, smarts, and poise make him a safe bet to stick on a roster, but his lack of elite arm strength and untested progression skills cap his ceiling as a franchise QB. Teams needing a reliable No. 2 or a bridge option—like the Pittsburgh Steelers, New Orleans Saints, or New York Jets—could target him. His ideal fit is a West Coast or timing-based offense that maximizes his accuracy and decision-making while masking his arm limitations.

Like Gardner Minshew, Howard is a savvy, competitive QB who can win games with efficiency and grit rather than overwhelming physical gifts. He’s a plug-and-play option who elevates a good roster but won’t carry a struggling one.

Round Grade: 5th Round

Stats: Per Sports Reference

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