Will Howard has quickly emerged as one of the most intriguing quarterback prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. Selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the sixth round, Howard's remarkable college stats and postseason success have caught the attention of both fans and analysts. In this article, we’ll dive deep into Will Howard stats, his collegiate journey, and what he might offer the Steelers moving forward.

Will Howard's College Journey and Records

Hailing from West Chester, Pennsylvania, Will Howard first made his mark at Kansas State before transferring to Ohio State for a final, headline-grabbing year. Across 50 college games, Howard compiled an impressive 9,796 passing yards, 83 touchdowns, and just 35 interceptions. In his 2024 season alone with Ohio State, he threw for 4,010 yards and 35 touchdowns, completing 73% of his passes. This stellar season helped propel the Buckeyes to a national championship.

His playoff performance was especially notable. Over the last four games, Howard threw for over 1,100 yards and produced nine touchdowns. The National Championship game saw him rack up 231 yards, two passing touchdowns, and an additional 57 rushing yards—demonstrating his dual-threat capability. For a deeper look at Howard’s transition to the NCAA and NFL, check out the Steelers’ official breakdown of what makes Will Howard special.

Strengths Behind the Numbers: What Sets Howard Apart?

Howard's physical profile aligns with classic NFL quarterback traits: standing just over 6'4" and weighing 236 pounds. His strong arm, intelligent play, and surprising athleticism make him well-suited for modern offensive schemes. While some scouts questioned his decision-making on a few plays, most agreed that his intelligence and mental resilience set him apart. According to NFL draft analyst Dane Brugler of The Athletic, Howard was ranked as the eighth-best quarterback in his class.

In the Steelers’ 2025 draft recap and grades, Howard was highlighted as a high-floor pick with a reliable mechanical base, great downfield vision, and solid experience in high-pressure moments. If you want a full breakdown of the Steelers’ draft approach and analysis of their QB selections, visit USA Today’s 2025 Steelers draft grades.

How Howard Fits with the Steelers

Pittsburgh saw a clear need at quarterback and addressed it with Howard in the sixth round, aiming for dependable depth and potential upside. His postseason performances showed his ability to deliver in the clutch, a trait that Pittsburgh fans always appreciate.

Head Coach Mike Tomlin and the Steelers’ staff were reportedly impressed by Howard’s improvement and leadership during Ohio State’s championship run. His ability to distribute the ball efficiently and thrive under pressure aligns well with the Steelers’ offensive philosophy. For a more personal look at Howard’s journey and reaction to being drafted, explore the Steelers’ official feature on Will Howard’s draft day.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect from Will Howard in the NFL

Will Howard stats reveal a quarterback with upward momentum, an impressive arm, and proven resilience. While he may initially compete for a backup or developmental role, his history suggests he could become a valuable contributor if given the chance.

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, keep an eye on Howard's progress in training camp and preseason action. Both the Steelers and their fans hope that his college success will translate to consistent production on Sundays.

In summary: Will Howard’s stats showcase his ability to perform at the highest level of college football. Now, with the Steelers investing in his potential, fans have reason to be optimistic about what comes next for this talented quarterback. For the latest updates on quarterbacks and the wider rookie class, browse ESPN’s comprehensive NFL draft coverage.