The trajectory of Will Howard’s future may have just taken a massive turn after transferring to Ohio State from Kansas State last year. After a remarkable 2024 season, he has not only helped cap off one of the best seasons in Buckeyes history but also positioned himself as a strong candidate for the upcoming NFL Draft. Leading Ohio State to their ninth national title and their first since 2014, Howard’s performance has been nothing short of spectacular.
Impressive Stats and Career Growth
Howard is coming off a career-best season. In 2023, he barely surpassed 2,600 yards, throwing 24 touchdowns while completing 61.3% of his passes. Fast forward to 2024, and those numbers skyrocketed. He threw for an impressive 4,010 yards, racked up 35 touchdowns, and completed a stunning 73% of his passes. This leap in performance showcases not only his growth as a quarterback but also his ability to adapt and excel under pressure.
A New Offensive Strategy
This success was all under the guidance of the Buckeyes’ first-year offensive coordinator, Chip Kelly. Known for his innovative offensive strategies, Kelly made a surprising move from UCLA to Ohio State, and it seems to have paid off for Howard. With Kelly’s expertise, Howard may have gained valuable insights into his potential NFL landing spot, adding another layer of excitement to his future.
The Raiders’ Rebuilding Strategy
As the NFL Draft approaches, the Las Vegas Raiders are in a phase of rebuilding, and quarterback is a crucial piece of that puzzle. Recently, Kelly was announced as the new offensive coordinator for the Raiders, joining forces with head coach Pete Carroll. With eight total draft picks in the 2025 NFL Draft, starting with the No. 6 overall pick, the Raiders have a unique opportunity to reshape their roster.
Draft Positioning and Potential Picks
Currently, the Raiders are in a prime position to draft a quarterback. However, they face stiff competition from teams like the Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, and New York Giants, all of which hold the top three picks and are also in need of a quarterback. If the Raiders miss out on a first-round signal caller, they could turn their attention to Howard in the later rounds, potentially in the third round.
After all, the Raiders have two third-round picks: their own at No. 68 overall and No. 73, which they acquired from a midseason trade with the New York Jets for star receiver Davante Adams. This gives them flexibility in their draft strategy, and Howard could be a valuable asset if they choose to go that route.
What the Experts Are Saying
The buzz around Howard is growing, and experts are taking note. Dane Brugler from The Athletic raised an interesting question: “The Raiders have two 3rd round picks. Which one will they use to draft Will Howard?” This sentiment is echoed by Bleacher Report’s scouting department, which notes that “Overall, Will Howard has the tools and abilities teams look for in a developmental prospect.” They highlight his NFL skill set and suggest he could project as a backup, with flashes of passing upside and rushing ability that will entice an NFL franchise later in the draft.
Kelly’s Influence on the Draft
With Chip Kelly now at the helm of the Raiders’ offensive strategy, his influence on the team’s draft decisions will be crucial. Will he advocate for a quarterback who can fit into his system? Or will he see the potential in Howard and push for him to be drafted? The connection between Howard and Kelly could be pivotal in determining Howard’s NFL future.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, all eyes will be on Will Howard. His impressive performance at Ohio State has set the stage for what could be a significant moment in his career. With the Raiders in need of a quarterback and Kelly’s recent hiring, the stars may be aligning for Howard to make his mark in the NFL.
In a league where every decision counts, the upcoming draft could be a game-changer for Howard. Will he be the answer to the Raiders’ quarterback woes? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the excitement surrounding his future is palpable. As fans and analysts alike speculate on his next move, Howard’s journey from Kansas State to Ohio State, and potentially to the NFL, is a testament to his hard work and determination. The world of college football has set the stage, and now it’s time for Howard to shine on the professional level.
