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The NFL Draft is an exciting time for both college football players and fans, as it marks the culmination of years of hard work, determination, and skill development. For some players, the draft process is a time to prove that they have what it takes to compete at the highest level of football. One player who has been turning heads in the lead-up to the 2025 NFL Draft is Ohio State’s Will Howard, a talented player whose stock is steadily rising as the draft approaches.

Howard, a dynamic and versatile player who has excelled in multiple roles during his time at Ohio State, is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about prospects in the draft class. With his combination of physical tools, football intelligence, and on-field success, Howard is positioning himself as a future NFL star. This blog post will take a deeper look at why Will Howard’s stock continues to rise and what makes him such an attractive prospect for NFL teams.

### The Rise of Will Howard: A Player to Watch

Will Howard’s rise to prominence has been a gradual and exciting one for Ohio State football. Known for his work ethic, leadership qualities, and ability to make plays in critical moments, Howard’s journey has been nothing short of impressive. He arrived in Columbus as a highly regarded recruit, and while he faced stiff competition for playing time early in his career, it was clear from the start that he had the talent to stand out.

Howard’s story is a reminder that football is a game of development, and players often hit their stride later in their careers. Howard was initially seen as a solid contributor, but as he gained experience and continued to develop his skills, he became a key player for Ohio State’s defense. Over the years, he grew into one of the most dependable and impactful players on the team, earning recognition for his leadership and ability to perform in high-pressure situations.

As he prepared for the 2025 NFL Draft, Howard’s blend of athleticism, versatility, and mental acuity has captured the attention of scouts and analysts alike. With his final season at Ohio State showing significant growth and development, his draft stock continues to rise as more teams begin to take notice of what he brings to the table.

### Physical Tools: A Rare Combination of Strength and Speed

One of the key factors behind Howard’s rising draft stock is his impressive physical attributes. At 6’3” and weighing in at around 225 pounds, Howard possesses the size and strength necessary to compete at the NFL level. However, it’s his speed, agility, and athleticism that truly set him apart from many other prospects.

His ability to move quickly for his size allows him to close gaps in coverage, make plays on the ball, and adjust to the speed of the game. This combination of size and athleticism is rare in college football and is one of the reasons why NFL scouts have been taking a closer look at Howard.

As a linebacker, Howard has shown an ability to cover ground quickly, both in pass coverage and when defending the run. His quickness and lateral movement allow him to react to plays as they unfold, making him a versatile asset who can contribute to a variety of defensive schemes. NFL teams are always looking for players who can adapt to different roles and play at a high level, and Howard’s athleticism gives him the flexibility to fit into a variety of defensive systems.

Additionally, Howard has the strength to shed blockers and make tackles at the point of attack, which is crucial for a player in his position. His physical tools make him an attractive option for teams looking for an impactful linebacker who can contribute immediately.

### High Football IQ and Leadership on the Field

Beyond his physical gifts, Will Howard’s football IQ and leadership abilities have been key factors in his rise. Howard is known for his ability to read offenses, recognize plays as they develop, and make quick decisions that help his team succeed. His football IQ is one of the primary reasons why he’s been able to excel at Ohio State and is becoming a focal point in NFL scouting evaluations.

Howard’s understanding of the game allows him to play with a level of discipline and awareness that sets him apart from other prospects. His ability to diagnose plays, anticipate routes, and read the quarterback’s eyes has made him a threat in both coverage and against the run. NFL teams covet players who can think and react quickly on the field, and Howard has proven that he can do that consistently.

In addition to his on-field intelligence, Howard has also been recognized for his leadership qualities. He has served as a captain at Ohio State and has been a key motivator for his teammates, leading by example both on and off the field. Leadership is a critical quality for any NFL player, and teams are always looking for individuals who can step up in the locker room and in high-pressure situations.

### Production on the Field: A Consistent Contributor

Will Howard’s consistency on the field has been a major factor in his rising draft stock. Over the course of his college career, he has been a steady contributor to Ohio State’s defense, delivering in both big games and throughout the regular season. He’s known for his ability to make key plays when the team needs them the most, whether it’s a timely sack, a game-changing interception, or a crucial tackle for loss.

In his final season at Ohio State, Howard posted some of his best numbers, showcasing his ability to impact the game in a variety of ways. He finished the season with strong stats in tackles, sacks, and interceptions, proving that he can be a playmaker on the defensive side of the ball. His versatility is another reason why his stock has been rising – he is a player who can contribute in multiple facets of the game, making him an attractive option for teams looking for a linebacker who can do it all.

Howard’s ability to consistently perform at a high level, especially in key games, has also boosted his draft stock. Scouts and analysts have noted that Howard has a knack for showing up in big moments, making him a player who can be relied upon in clutch situations. This type of production and poise under pressure is exactly what NFL teams are looking for when evaluating draft prospects.

### NFL Comparisons: A Versatile Linebacker with High Upside

When comparing Will Howard to other NFL prospects, many analysts point to players like Deion Jones, Darius Leonard, or even Bobby Wagner as potential comparisons. Howard’s combination of athleticism, football IQ, and leadership make him a versatile linebacker who can fit into a variety of defensive schemes.

Like Jones and Leonard, Howard has the ability to cover ground quickly and make plays in coverage, while also being strong enough to contribute in the run game. His ability to be a factor in both pass coverage and run support makes him a valuable commodity for NFL teams who need a linebacker who can do it all.

While it’s still early in the draft evaluation process, Howard’s skill set, combined with his high upside, has many believing that he could be a first- or second-round pick come April 2025. His ability to make an impact right away, combined with his potential to develop into one of the top linebackers in the league, makes him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams.

### The Future Is Bright for Will Howard

As the 2025 NFL Draft draws closer, Will Howard’s stock continues to rise, and for good reason. His combination of physical tools, football IQ, leadership, and on-field production make him one of the most promising linebacker prospects in recent memory. While he may not be as well-known as some of the other top prospects in this year’s draft class, Howard’s ability to contribute in a variety of ways and make an impact on the field has scouts and analysts excited about his future in the NFL.

For Ohio State fans, watching Howard’s journey to the NFL is a reminder of the program’s ability to produce top-tier talent year after year. Howard’s success is a testament to the hard work and dedication he has put into his craft, and it’s clear that his hard work is paying off. As the draft approaches, NFL teams will continue to evaluate Howard’s potential, but one thing is certain – his stock is on the rise, and his future in the league looks brighter than ever.