Will Howard, the Ohio State quarterback who led his team to a national championship in 2024, has become one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. While Howard is not projected to be a first-round pick, his talent, leadership, and championship pedigree have caught the attention of scouts and analysts. Recently, former NFL quarterback Brian Hoyer made a bold statement about Howard, calling him a “hidden gem” in this year’s draft class. Hoyer’s endorsement has added to the growing buzz around Howard and his potential to make an impact at the next level.
Howard’s journey to the NFL has been marked by resilience and determination. Originally a Kansas State transfer, he joined Ohio State and quickly became a key player for the Buckeyes. His performance during the 2024 season was nothing short of spectacular, as he led Ohio State on one of the greatest playoff runs in college football history. The Buckeyes defeated Tennessee, Oregon, Texas, and Notre Dame en route to the national championship, with Howard showcasing his ability to lead under pressure and deliver in critical moments.
Despite his success, Howard has been somewhat overlooked in the draft process. He is often ranked in the second or third tier of quarterback prospects, behind players like Cam Ward from Miami and Shedeur Sanders from Colorado. Critics have pointed to his deep ball accuracy as a potential weakness, though Howard made significant improvements in this area during the latter part of the 2024 season. His strengths, including his short and intermediate accuracy, athleticism, and physicality, have drawn comparisons to NFL star Josh Allen. Howard’s ability to create plays when needed and his mental toughness make him a compelling prospect for teams looking for a quarterback with upside.
Brian Hoyer’s praise for Howard has brought renewed attention to his potential. Hoyer, who spent 15 years in the NFL and earned a Super Bowl ring as Tom Brady’s backup, highlighted Howard’s leadership skills, personality, and “aura” as qualities that will draw teammates to him. Hoyer’s endorsement underscores the intangible qualities that Howard brings to the table, which are often just as important as physical attributes in determining a quarterback’s success in the NFL.
Howard’s confidence in his abilities has also been evident throughout the draft process. He has openly stated that he believes he is the best quarterback in the draft, citing his arm strength, accuracy, and mental approach as factors that set him apart. This self-assuredness, combined with his championship experience, makes him an intriguing option for teams willing to invest in his development.
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Howard’s story serves as a reminder that talent and potential can sometimes be overlooked in favor of more hyped prospects. For the team that takes a chance on him, Howard could prove to be a hidden gem, capable of exceeding expectations and becoming a cornerstone of their franchise. His journey from college champion to NFL hopeful is a testament to his resilience and determination, and his future in professional football is one to watch closely.
