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The college football world is rife with speculation, especially when a player of Will Howard’s caliber is involved. A rising star in the Big Ten, Howard has captivated attention with his playmaking ability, leadership, and versatility at the quarterback position for the Ohio State Buckeyes. His name has now been linked to one of the NFL’s most historic franchises — and there’s no doubt that the potential union would be a major story in both the college and professional football worlds.

The buzz surrounding Howard and his possible future in the NFL has reached a fever pitch. According to recent reports, the talented young quarterback from Ohio State is being linked to a high-profile NFL team that is eager to bolster its quarterback position. That franchise? None other than the New England Patriots. This connection would put Howard alongside one of the most significant figures in the NFL today: a $75 million quarterback who has made waves in both his contract and performances. But what makes this connection so intriguing, and why is it that Will Howard’s name is coming up in these discussions?

### Will Howard’s Rising Stock at Ohio State

Before diving into the specifics of his NFL future, it’s essential to understand why Will Howard is generating so much excitement. After taking over the starting job for the Buckeyes, Howard has quickly transformed into one of the most promising quarterbacks in the NCAA. A product of the Big Ten conference, Howard has shown that he has all the tools to succeed at the next level.

He possesses a strong arm that can make every throw in the playbook, from deep bombs to precise, tight-window throws. His mobility is also an asset, allowing him to extend plays when necessary and make things happen with his legs. But what sets Howard apart from other quarterbacks in his class is his poise and leadership. Despite being relatively young, Howard has a maturity about him that’s rare for his age, especially at the quarterback position.

His ability to read defenses, adjust on the fly, and maintain control of the game speaks volumes about his football IQ. As the season progresses, Howard continues to improve with every game, making him a prime candidate for the NFL Draft when the time comes. Scouts have taken notice, and many are already drawing comparisons between Howard and some of the league’s best quarterbacks, such as the likes of Patrick Mahomes or Josh Allen — albeit with a different style of play.

### The New England Patriots: A Historic Franchise in Need of a QB

The New England Patriots are one of the most successful and storied franchises in NFL history. Boasting a legacy built on six Super Bowl championships, nine conference titles, and numerous division titles, the team’s place in football lore is unquestioned. But the Patriots have struggled to find stability at the quarterback position since the retirement of Tom Brady, the legendary quarterback who led the team to all of its success over two decades.

While they’ve tried several different quarterbacks in recent years, none have come close to replicating Brady’s magic. The post-Brady era has seen New England stuck in a cycle of mediocrity, failing to make the playoffs consistently and struggling to develop a quarterback capable of leading the team back to championship contention.

In 2024, the Patriots signed a new QB in Mac Jones, who showed promise in his first season. But despite his early success, Jones has yet to fully live up to the expectations set for him when he was drafted in 2021. With Jones’ struggles in the 2024-2025 season and New England’s apparent lack of a long-term answer at quarterback, many analysts believe the franchise is actively exploring its options for the future.

Enter Will Howard, a young quarterback who could be just the fresh face the Patriots need.

### The Link Between Will Howard and the Patriots

So, why exactly is Will Howard being linked to the New England Patriots? The answer lies in the team’s desire to find the right quarterback for its future and Howard’s growing reputation as one of the top young quarterbacks in college football.

The Patriots have a rich history of scouting and developing quarterbacks, and they have been especially successful in their ability to find young talent that can thrive in their system. Bill Belichick, the Patriots’ legendary head coach, has always been known for finding players who fit the team’s ethos and can succeed in a system that emphasizes discipline, decision-making, and smart football. It’s clear that Howard’s skills are in alignment with what New England is looking for in a future signal caller.

If Howard enters the NFL draft, he could very well be the type of player the Patriots target as they look to upgrade the quarterback position for the long term. But what makes this potential match even more intriguing is the speculation that Howard might join forces with the Patriots’ $75 million quarterback, who has already made waves in the league.

### A $75 Million QB: A Potential Mentor for Howard

The current quarterback situation in New England is centered around Mac Jones, who signed a massive contract extension worth $75 million. While the deal has given Jones some financial security, it has also put pressure on him to perform at a high level. If Jones is unable to elevate his game and lead the Patriots back to the playoffs, there’s a very real possibility that the franchise could turn to younger talent.

For Will Howard, the chance to learn under the tutelage of a veteran quarterback like Jones could be invaluable. Despite his struggles, Jones brings experience to the table — and his understanding of the complexities of NFL defenses could help Howard in his transition from college football to the pros. The pairing of Howard and Jones could help the former grow into a leader and develop his skill set in a supportive environment.

Moreover, the Patriots have a track record of making savvy moves in the draft, and bringing in Howard could provide them with a promising future at quarterback. Howard’s growth would allow the team to take its time in developing him into the player he has the potential to become, making it a win-win for both parties.

### The Future of Will Howard and the Patriots

It’s still early, and much can change between now and the NFL Draft. While there are many hurdles for Howard to clear before even considering entering the draft, the buzz surrounding his potential future in New England is undeniable. If Howard decides to make the leap to the professional ranks, the opportunity to play for the Patriots — a historic franchise with a legacy of success — could be the perfect stepping stone for his career.

For New England, the chance to land a young, dynamic quarterback like Howard would provide hope for the future, especially in a quarterback-driven league. Whether it’s through mentorship under Mac Jones or a possible future competition for the starting role, Howard’s addition could be the catalyst the Patriots need to get back into contention.

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches and Howard’s future continues to unfold, all eyes will be on the Ohio State quarterback. Will he take the next step toward a potential NFL career? And if so, will the New England Patriots be the franchise to guide him into the next chapter of his football journey? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain: the connection between Will Howard and the Patriots is one that football fans will be watching closely.