BREAKING: 5-Star QB Will Howard Flips from Ohio State to Tennessee in Stunning Commitment Shift
In a shocking twist that has sent ripples across the college football world, 5-star quarterback Will Howard (6-foot-4, 236 pounds) has decommitted from Ohio State and officially announced his new commitment to the Tennessee Volunteers, choosing Rocky Top over Kentucky and Florida State.
This bold move marks a monumental recruiting win for head coach Josh Heupel and the Vols, as they steal one of the most physically gifted signal-callers in the 2025 class right out of the Buckeyes’ hands.
💣 The Flip That Shook the SEC
Will Howard, ranked as the No. 1 or No. 2 pro-style quarterback in several recruiting databases, had long been considered a future Buckeye cornerstone. His size, arm strength, and pocket presence made him a dream fit for Ohio State’s pass-heavy offense.
But in recent weeks, whispers began circulating that Howard had grown increasingly impressed with Heupel’s fast-paced system and the Vols’ commitment to developing elite quarterbacks. After a recent visit to Knoxville, the shift became real — and now it’s official.
> “Tennessee just felt like home,” Howard said in his announcement. “Coach Heupel believes in me. The energy, the fans, the system — it’s everything I want in a program.”
🔥 What Will Howard Brings to Tennessee
Size & Strength: At 6’4”, 236 lbs, Howard has the physical tools to withstand SEC defenses and make throws at all three levels.
NFL-Caliber Arm: Scouts rave about his velocity, deep-ball accuracy, and poise in the pocket.
Leadership: Described as a “film junkie” and team-first leader, he’s expected to make an immediate impact.
🟠 Rocky Top Reaction
Vol Nation exploded with excitement moments after the news broke. Social media erupted with the hashtag #WelcomeWill, and Tennessee fans celebrated the statement Heupel just made to the rest of the conference.
This isn’t just about landing a 5-star. This is about flipping a cornerstone player from a perennial powerhouse and beating out two strong contenders in Kentucky and FSU to do it.
🏁 Final Word
Tennessee didn’t just win a recruitment battle — they took control of the narrative. With Will Howard now in orange and white, the Volunteers have their quarterback of the future. And the rest of the SEC better take notice:
Rocky Top just leveled up.