Ohio State quarterback Will Howard has recently made headlines not just for his impressive performance on the field, but also for securing a lucrative new NIL deal. Following his national championship victory, Howard took to Instagram to announce his collaboration with Dr. Pepper, a brand valued at an astounding $42.12 billion by Forbes. In his post, he showcased a Dr. Pepper jacket and a refreshing soft drink, capturing the essence of the partnership with a catchy caption: "Championship football, it’s a Pepper thing."
Howard’s impressive stats and future aspirations
As he prepares to transition to the NFL, Howard’s statistics from his senior season speak volumes about his talent. He wrapped up the year with an impressive 4,010 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, and only 10 interceptions. These numbers not only highlight his skill as a quarterback but also showcase his potential at the next level.
Before joining Ohio State, Howard spent four years at Kansas State, where he honed his abilities. His final season with the Buckeyes culminated in a national championship win, a fitting capstone to his college football journey. In the championship game against Notre Dame, he delivered a stellar performance, throwing for 231 yards and two touchdowns, completing 17 of 21 pass attempts.
Growing list of NIL deals
The partnership with Dr. Pepper is just the latest addition to Howard’s expanding portfolio of NIL deals. He has also signed agreements with notable brands such as JLab, ONIT Athlete, Ricart Automotive, EA Sports, and Long McArthur Luxury. This growing list not only reflects his marketability but also the increasing significance of NIL opportunities for college athletes.
Paying tribute to coach Ryan Day
In a recent appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show," Howard took a moment to express his gratitude towards coach Ryan Day. He credited Day for his pivotal role in his development as a player during his time at Ohio State. "Coach Day is my guy and he took a chance on me," Howard shared. "I basically owe my life to that guy. He’s developed me. I’ve never been coached so hard."
Howard’s journey under Day’s guidance has been transformative, pushing him to refine his skills and adapt to the demands of being a top-tier quarterback. His candid remarks underscore the importance of mentorship in college football, a theme that resonates deeply within the sport.
Looking ahead to the NFL draft
As Howard sets his sights on the 2025 NFL Draft, he will be joining a competitive field of quarterbacks, including talents like Quinn Ewers, Cam Ward, Riley Leonard, and Shedeur Sanders. The draft will take place at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin, from April 24 to 26, and fans are eagerly anticipating where these promising athletes will land.
Ohio State is not only preparing to say goodbye to Howard but also to other key players like running back TreVeyon Henderson and senior wide receiver Emeka Egbuka. Linebacker Cody Simon is also concluding his collegiate career. The Buckeyes will need to rebuild as they head into the next season, but the foundation laid by Howard and his teammates will undoubtedly influence the program moving forward.
The future of Ohio State football
With Howard’s departure, the Buckeyes will likely look to Julian Sayin to step into the quarterback role. Sayin showcased his potential during his freshman season, completing five passes for 84 yards and a touchdown. He enters a promising situation with a program fresh off a national title and a talented wide receiver like Jeremiah Smith to target.
While the future looks bright for Ohio State, the impact of losing a player like Howard cannot be overstated. His leadership, skill, and competitive spirit have left an indelible mark on the program. As he embarks on his professional journey, fans will be watching closely, eager to see how he translates his college success to the NFL.
In summary, Will Howard’s journey from a promising quarterback at Kansas State to a national champion with Ohio State is a testament to hard work, dedication, and the power of mentorship. His new NIL deal with Dr. Pepper highlights the changing landscape of college athletics, where athletes are now able to capitalize on their talents and marketability. As he prepares for the next chapter of his career, Howard leaves behind a legacy that will inspire future generations of college football players.
