Will Howard, quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes, is linked to an in-state NFL Draft fit.

As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, one of the most intriguing storylines in college football revolves around the future of Will Howard, a quarterback who has been making waves with the Ohio State Buckeyes. While Ohio State’s quarterback room has been full of high-profile talent in recent years, Howard has consistently shown flashes of potential that have raised his stock as a potential NFL Draft pick.

A native of Ohio, Howard has long been a fan of the Buckeyes, and his journey to becoming a key figure on the team has been a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and innate talent. As he prepares for what could be his final season in Columbus, NFL scouts and analysts are keeping a close eye on his development, particularly in regard to how he might fit into an NFL offense.

One particular narrative that has emerged in recent months is the possibility of Will Howard being drafted by an NFL team with deep ties to his home state: the Cleveland Browns. With the Browns seeking to solidify their quarterback room for the future, Howard has become a name to watch as a potential fit for the team.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Will Howard’s college career, what makes him an appealing prospect for NFL teams, particularly the Browns, and how he could develop into a long-term solution in Cleveland’s quarterback room.

The Rise of Will Howard: From Ohio State to the NFL

Will Howard’s journey to Ohio State and his eventual rise as one of the program’s most promising quarterbacks is a story of growth, hard work, and self-belief. After initially committing to a smaller program, Howard made the bold decision to transfer to Ohio State, where he was able to learn from some of the best coaches and develop under the bright lights of one of college football’s most prestigious programs.

When Howard arrived at Ohio State, he had already shown significant potential as a dual-threat quarterback capable of both making plays with his arm and his legs. However, at Ohio State, Howard’s development took on a new dimension, as he was exposed to one of the most high-powered offenses in the country. His ability to make reads, manage the pocket, and demonstrate poise under pressure quickly earned him the respect of his coaches and teammates.

Over the course of his time at Ohio State, Howard has become known for his strong arm, accuracy, and leadership on the field. Though he has had to share the quarterback duties with other talented players in the program, his performance in games and his commitment to improving his skills have solidified his place as a highly regarded prospect for the 2024 NFL Draft.

Howard’s statistics and highlight performances throughout his time at Ohio State speak to his readiness for the next level. His ability to throw with velocity and precision, combined with his mobility in the pocket, makes him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams looking for a quarterback who can thrive in a modern, pass-heavy offense. With his poise, leadership, and mental toughness, Howard’s potential to transition to the NFL is undeniable.

What Makes Will Howard an Intriguing NFL Draft Prospect?

Will Howard’s blend of physical tools and mental acuity has placed him firmly in the conversation as one of the top quarterback prospects for the 2024 NFL Draft. While he may not be regarded as one of the top-tier quarterbacks in this draft class, there are several reasons why NFL teams, including the Cleveland Browns, are taking notice of Howard’s potential.

Strong Arm and Accuracy

One of the defining traits of Will Howard’s game is his arm strength. Howard has the ability to make throws to all areas of the field, whether it’s a deep ball down the sideline or a tight window pass over the middle. His mechanics are sound, and his throwing motion is compact, which allows him to generate velocity without sacrificing accuracy.

Throughout his time at Ohio State, Howard has consistently shown the ability to deliver passes with precision, even under duress. His deep ball accuracy, in particular, has been one of the standout aspects of his game, as he has been able to connect with wide receivers on long passes in tight coverage situations. This is an essential skill for any quarterback in today’s NFL, where downfield passing is a major component of most offenses.

Mobility and Athleticism

In addition to his strong arm, Howard’s mobility is another reason why he’s regarded as a promising quarterback prospect. While he may not be the most athletic quarterback in the class, Howard has the ability to extend plays with his legs when necessary. His vision as a runner allows him to pick up key yards when the pocket breaks down, and he’s shown the ability to make defenders miss in the open field.

His mobility also helps him to avoid sacks and create opportunities for his receivers down the field. NFL offenses are increasingly leaning on quarterbacks who can not only make plays from the pocket but also create opportunities on the move. Howard’s skill set in this regard makes him a fit for teams looking for a quarterback who can adapt to changing situations and improvise when needed.

Football IQ and Decision-Making

Another important trait that has made Will Howard a standout player for Ohio State is his football IQ. He has consistently demonstrated an ability to read defenses and make quick decisions. This is critical for a quarterback, particularly at the NFL level, where the speed of the game is faster, and defenders are more sophisticated.

Howard’s awareness in the pocket, his ability to make smart decisions under pressure, and his capacity for managing the game in tough situations are all assets that NFL scouts covet. As he continues to refine his decision-making, he’s expected to improve even further, particularly in areas like pre-snap reads and situational awareness.

Leadership and Mental Toughness

Beyond his physical abilities, Will Howard’s leadership and mental toughness have been key to his success at Ohio State. In the high-pressure world of college football, Howard has proven to be a leader who can keep his team calm and focused, even in difficult circumstances. His leadership on the field has made him a favorite among teammates and coaches alike, and that intangible quality is one that NFL teams highly value.

Howard’s resilience and ability to handle adversity have been on full display throughout his time at Ohio State. Whether it was bouncing back from tough losses or leading his team to key victories, Howard has consistently shown the mental fortitude required of an NFL quarterback.

The Cleveland Browns: A Perfect Fit for Will Howard?

With the Cleveland Browns looking to solidify their quarterback position for the future, Will Howard has emerged as a potential in-state fit for the team. The Browns have struggled with quarterback consistency over the years, with various attempts to find the right long-term solution. As of now, Deshaun Watson is the starter, but his struggles in recent seasons, combined with the ongoing uncertainty about his long-term success in Cleveland, have left the team looking for potential future options.

What Could Will Howard Bring to the Browns?

Will Howard’s potential fit with the Browns largely depends on his ability to adapt to the NFL’s pro-style offenses. Cleveland, under head coach Kevin Stefanski, runs a balanced offense that emphasizes the running game while also being capable of attacking defenses through the air. The Browns have a solid offensive line and an elite running back in Nick Chubb, but their quarterback play has often held them back from reaching their full potential.

Howard’s ability to make plays from within the pocket while also being able to escape pressure and extend plays with his legs is a skill set that would complement the Browns’ offensive scheme. His strong arm and ability to throw deep would also give Cleveland an added weapon to stretch defenses and open up opportunities for their playmakers.

In addition, Howard’s leadership and poise under pressure could provide the Browns with a steady presence at the quarterback position, something they’ve sorely lacked over the years. If Howard can develop under the tutelage of NFL coaches and adjust to the speed and complexity of the game, he could become a long-term solution for Cleveland.

Cleveland’s Need for a Future Quarterback

The Browns are entering a critical period in their franchise’s history, and quarterback play will be central to their success. With Watson’s future uncertain, the team may look to draft a young quarterback who can learn and develop behind Watson, or even challenge for the starting job if Watson continues to struggle.

Howard, as a homegrown talent, could bring an extra layer of intrigue to this decision. With the Browns in need of stability at quarterback, the idea of selecting a quarterback who is familiar with Ohio and has the potential to succeed in the NFL would be a compelling narrative. His connection to the state could make him a fan favorite, and if he performs well in pre-draft evaluations, he could emerge as a viable option for the Browns in the draft.

Will Howard’s NFL Draft Prospects: A Look Ahead

As Will Howard continues to prepare for the NFL Draft, he will undoubtedly face a rigorous evaluation process. Scouts will look closely at his performances, his strengths, and areas where he needs to improve. His strong arm, mobility, football IQ, and leadership qualities will be key selling points, but there will also be questions about how quickly he can adapt to the NFL’s speed and complexity.

For the Cleveland Browns, the decision to select Will Howard could come down to the team’s overall strategy and the value they place on a quarterback with potential. If Howard is available in the second or third round, Cleveland may consider him as a project quarterback who could eventually take over as the franchise’s future leader.

While the Browns’ current focus will remain on the immediate future with Deshaun Watson, the idea of securing a young quarterback with the tools and leadership qualities that Howard possesses makes him an interesting prospect for Cleveland’s long-term plans.