Will Howard gives bone-chilling warning to NFL teams before the Draft

Will Howard, hailing from West Chester, Pennsylvania, lead the Ohio State Buckeyes to a national championship in 2024.

Will Howard gives bone-chilling warning to NFL teams before the Draft

Will Howard (Image via Athlon Sports)

With few days remaining until the NFL Draft 2025, Ohio State quarterback Will Howard has made headlines with a direct and assertive message to NFL teams. Will Howard, who’s had an outstanding season, winning the College Football Championship, is among the many names declared for the Draft. Despite his huge success, Howard is not considered a first-round pick; however, his profile has jumped up a few spots among scouts and analysts.

Howard joined Ohio State for his final collegiate season and made an immediate impact. He threw for 4,010 yards, recorded 35 touchdowns, and completed 73 percent of his passes—an Ohio State record. Despite preseason doubts about his ability to start, he led the Buckeyes to a national championship in the final game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

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While quarterbacks like Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders are receiving significant attention, Howard believes he belongs at the top. Amongst the quarterbacks in the draft class, Howard is placed behind Jaxson Dart, who’s expected to be a late draftee in the upcoming draft. With that being said, Howard’s efficiency, leadership, and consistency against top-tier defenses are advantages that he holds above Dart and other late first-round and second-round hopeful prospects.

During a recent appearance on Hey Rookie: Welcome to the NFL, Howard issued a word of advice to all the teams ahead of the draft. Howard understands where he stands amongst the other draft prospects in his position and overall.

You know, when I get to the NFL, I don’t want you guys to miss out on me. Because every single team that picks a quarterback in front of me, I’m going to make it my mission to make sure that they regret not picking me. Draft me. Draft me, or you’ll regret it.

Will Howard said

Multiple teams are in dire need to bring in a good quarterback. Others are looking for young potential to take over their aging quarterbacks. Last but not least, every team would love to keep a developmental option in their arsenal, so there’s enough and more space for Will Howard.

Las Vegas Raiders Eye Will Howard as Potential Developmental Quarterback

With the 2025 NFL Draft approaching, the Las Vegas Raiders are keeping a close watch on Ohio State quarterback Will Howard. While the Raiders have secured veteran Geno Smith as their starter for the upcoming season, the franchise remains focused on identifying a long-term solution under center.

Will Howard
Will Howard (Image via Athlon Sports)

Head coach Pete Carroll and general manager John Spytek have emphasized flexibility in the draft. They are on board to allow the team to explore options beyond the quarterback position early on. However, the quarterback remains a key consideration for the future.

Will Howard has emerged as a strong candidate, particularly because of his connection to Raiders offensive coordinator Chip Kelly. Chip Kelly served as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes during Will Hoard’s standout championship-winning season.

Howard’s familiarity with Kelly’s offensive system gives the Raiders a clear evaluation edge. His college experience under Kelly could allow for a smoother transition into the Raiders’ offense if selected.

Although Howard is not expected to go in the first round, he is a realistic option for Las Vegas in the middle rounds, particularly on Day 2 or Day 3. Should the Raiders draft him, Howard would likely sit behind Smith in 2025, gaining valuable experience and preparing for a possible future starting role.