Will Howard’s fall to Day 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft highlights vital gaps in his game despite impressive stats.
Draft day can often reveal shocking surprises, but the slide of Will Howard wasn't entirely unexpected. Touted as a promising Ohio State QB, Howard impressed many with his performance during the 2024 season, culminating in a national championship victory. However, as other quarterbacks like Dillon Gabriel and Tyler Shough were chosen before him, it's crucial to investigate what went wrong for Howard, especially regarding his decision-making.
^^ Decision-Making Concerns Impact NFL Draft Prospects
Howard's four years at Kansas State paved the way for his transfer to Ohio State, a move that yielded immediate dividends. In his final collegiate season, he showcased standout numbers: over 4,000 passing yards, a remarkable completion percentage of 73.0%, and a stellar passer rating of 175.3. However, questions lingered about his aptitude under pressure, exacerbated by his lowest EPA per dropback grade in the draft class, as highlighted by experts like Pro Football Focus.
^^ Analyzing Howard’s Performance at Ohio State
Success at any institution can elevate a player's stock, but Howard's tendency for poor decision-making overshadowed his accolades. He secured a third-team All-Big Ten accolade and played a pivotal role in leading the Buckeyes to a national championship against Notre Dame, even winning the Offensive MVP award. Yet, despite these highs, scouts scrutinized his readiness for the NFL.
Remarkably, while he racked up impressive metrics, Pro Football Focus noted a troubling inconsistency in Howard’s gameplay, primarily in critical moments. Howard’s struggles often stemmed from his post-snap adjustments to defensive strategies, making him prone to errors when defenses applied pressure or when his initial passing options were unavailable. Even further, he registered a startling 36.2 on the EPA per dropback—a depth that raised alarms to potential NFL teams considering his future.
^^ The Inconsistency Factor
Lack of precision in his decision-making saw Howard drop lower in the draft than anticipated. While he flourished in a dynamic offensive environment at Ohio State, the nuances in play recognition became stark. His inability to execute critical plays under pressure left observers puzzled about his position among the top quarterback prospects. In a draft class with varying talent levels, notably among quarterbacks, Howard’s decision-making proved to be the most significant chink in his armor.
The ability to perceive and react to defensive schemes is crucial for any quarterback aspiring to make a mark in the NFL. Howard's reputation as a gunslinger stems from his arm strength and compact throwing motion, yet these attributes could only get him so far. Coaches and scouts are not only looking for strong arms but also for QB decisions that can dictate games. This inconsistency fuels questions about whether he can adapt effectively to the pro-level game complexity.
^^ Comparisons with Other Quarterback Prospects
Although Howard made considerable improvements throughout his senior year, his draft positioning fall to Day 3 underscores key differences when compared to quarterbacks like Shough and Gabriel. Both earned spots ahead of Howard, indicating confidence in their decision-making abilities. While Howard likely has the potential to develop into a solid NFL quarterback, it remains essential for him to refine his judgment to succeed at the next level.
The NFL Draft isn’t just about raw talent; it encompasses strategic vision and decision-making speed. Howard's journey exemplifies how even stellar statistics cannot fully relieve concerns over gameplay choices, particularly when placed alongside fellow quarterbacks who deliver under pressure.
^^ Future Prospects and Development
Despite the challenges faced in the draft, Howard's trajectory remains optimistic. As he gears up for potential late-round picks, the emphasis on refining his mental-game should take precedence. Improvement in areas such as reading defenses and quick decision-making can enhance his appeal significantly among NFL teams.
His 2024 season showcased some steps in the right direction, evidenced by a noticeable uptick in accuracy on deeper throws. As Will Howard approaches this new stage, it's crucial that he absorbs coaching constructively and address the points highlighted by analysis from football experts. Teams will likely assess his readiness not only based on his previous year’s gameplay but also on how he trains to rectify his weaknesses moving forward.
^^ Final Thoughts on the NFL Draft
As the NFL prepares for a new season, Will Howard’s situation presents an intriguing case study on the significance of decision-making in a quarterback's growth. While the stats may illuminate talent, it’s the clarity of thought and responsiveness on the field that draws serious attention from scouts and teams. With continued effort and a focus on his decision-making, Howard's path might not be as bleak as it appears following Day 3 of the draft, hinting at the promise still left in his career journey.
Will Howard’s experience stands as a potent reminder for all quarterback prospects: the numbers are essential, but the decisions made under pressure are what truly define success in the NFL.