Will Howard, the talented quarterback from Kansas State, has officially declared for the 2024 NFL Draft. After showcasing his skills and potential, many are wondering where he might land and what his prospects look like. This article will delve into Howard's scouting report, providing a comprehensive analysis of his strengths, weaknesses, and potential fit in the NFL.
Will Howard's Background and Early Career
William "Will" Howard, born December 13, 2001, hails from Downingtown, Pennsylvania, where he attended Downingtown West High School. Howard quickly became a standout athlete. As a dual-threat quarterback, he excelled both as a passer and a runner, earning numerous accolades and attracting attention from college programs. During his high school career, he threw for over 5,000 yards and 48 touchdowns, while also rushing for more than 1,000 yards and 19 touchdowns. These impressive statistics highlighted his versatility and playmaking ability, making him a highly sought-after recruit. — Saints Vs. Chargers: Game Stats & Key Highlights
After high school, Will Howard committed to Kansas State University, drawn to the Wildcats' program and the opportunity to compete in the Big 12 Conference. He entered a competitive quarterback room, but his talent was evident from the start. Throughout his college career, Howard demonstrated flashes of brilliance, battling for the starting role and showcasing his arm strength and athleticism. While his early years at Kansas State were marked by inconsistency and learning experiences, he progressively developed his skills, preparing him for a significant role in his final seasons.
Will Howard’s journey at Kansas State was characterized by perseverance and growth. He faced challenges, including injuries and competition for playing time, but he remained dedicated to improving his game. As he matured, his decision-making improved, and he became more comfortable leading the offense. His commitment to the program and his teammates was evident, making him a respected figure both on and off the field. The experiences and lessons he learned during his college career have shaped him into the player and person he is today, setting the stage for his entry into the NFL Draft.
Will Howard's Strengths
One of Will Howard’s most notable strengths is his arm talent. Howard possesses a strong arm, capable of making throws to all levels of the field. He can generate significant velocity on his passes, allowing him to fit the ball into tight windows and challenge defenses deep. This arm strength is particularly valuable in the NFL, where quarterbacks need to make quick decisions and deliver accurate throws under pressure. Howard’s ability to drive the ball downfield makes him a threat in any offensive scheme, giving him an advantage over quarterbacks with weaker arms.
Mobility and athleticism are also key attributes of Will Howard. He is not just a pocket passer; Howard can extend plays with his legs and make throws on the move. This mobility adds a dynamic element to his game, forcing defenses to account for his ability to run. Whether scrambling for a first down or evading pressure, Howard’s athleticism allows him to create opportunities and keep plays alive. This dual-threat capability is increasingly valued in the modern NFL, where quarterbacks are expected to be more than just passers.
Furthermore, Will Howard has demonstrated leadership qualities throughout his college career. He has earned the respect of his teammates and coaches, often taking command of the offense and making critical decisions in high-pressure situations. His leadership extends beyond the field, as he is known for his work ethic and dedication to improving his game. These intangible qualities are essential for success in the NFL, where quarterbacks are expected to be leaders both on and off the field. Howard’s leadership potential makes him an attractive prospect for teams seeking a quarterback who can inspire and motivate those around him.
Will Howard's Weaknesses
While Will Howard possesses several strengths, he also has areas where he needs to improve to succeed in the NFL. One of the primary concerns is his consistency. Howard has shown flashes of brilliance, but he has also had games where his accuracy and decision-making have been erratic. This inconsistency can be attributed to a variety of factors, including pressure, coverage schemes, and his own mechanics. Improving his consistency will be crucial for him to earn the trust of NFL coaches and teammates.
Decision-making under pressure is another area where Will Howard needs to develop. At times, he has forced throws into tight coverage or made poor reads, leading to turnovers. In the NFL, where defenses are faster and more complex, these mistakes can be costly. Howard needs to learn to read defenses more effectively and make smarter decisions under pressure. This requires experience, film study, and a better understanding of NFL-level defensive schemes. He will need to show that he can protect the ball and make the right reads consistently to thrive in the league.
Footwork and mechanics are additional aspects of Will Howard’s game that require refinement. At times, his footwork can be inconsistent, leading to inaccurate throws. Improving his footwork and mechanics will help him deliver the ball more consistently and accurately. This involves working with quarterback coaches to develop a more efficient and repeatable throwing motion. By focusing on these technical aspects, Howard can improve his overall performance and reduce the number of errant throws. Consistent footwork and sound mechanics are essential for quarterbacks to succeed at the highest level of football.
NFL Draft Projections and Potential Fits
Currently, Will Howard is projected to be a mid-to-late-round pick in the NFL Draft. His draft stock could fluctuate based on his performance in pre-draft workouts and interviews. Teams looking for a developmental quarterback with upside may be particularly interested in Howard. He has the raw talent and physical tools to succeed in the NFL, but he needs time and coaching to refine his skills.
Several teams could be potential fits for Will Howard. Teams like the Las Vegas Raiders, New Orleans Saints, and Seattle Seahawks, who may be looking for a backup or future starter, could view Howard as a valuable addition. These teams have established quarterbacks but may want to develop a young player behind the scenes. Howard would benefit from learning from experienced quarterbacks and working with quality coaching staffs. These environments would allow him to develop at his own pace and prepare for a potential starting role in the future.
Ultimately, Will Howard’s success in the NFL will depend on his ability to improve his consistency, decision-making, and mechanics. If he can refine these areas, he has the potential to become a valuable asset for an NFL team. His arm strength, athleticism, and leadership qualities make him an intriguing prospect. Teams will be closely watching his progress as he prepares for the NFL Draft, evaluating whether he has the potential to develop into a starting quarterback. The right team and coaching staff could unlock his full potential and help him become a successful NFL player.
Will Howard Scouting Report Summary
Will Howard possesses a blend of intriguing traits that make him a noteworthy prospect for the NFL Draft. His strengths include a powerful arm capable of making throws to all areas of the field, complemented by notable athleticism that allows him to extend plays and create opportunities with his legs. Moreover, Howard's leadership qualities, evident through his command on the field and dedication to improvement, make him a respected figure among teammates and coaches. These qualities collectively position him as a quarterback with significant potential for development at the professional level.
Conversely, Howard's scouting report also highlights areas where improvement is essential for him to thrive in the NFL. Consistency remains a key concern, as his performance has occasionally wavered, impacting accuracy and decision-making. Furthermore, his ability to make sound decisions under pressure needs refinement to minimize turnovers and capitalize on defensive vulnerabilities. Additionally, enhancing his footwork and mechanics would contribute to more consistent and accurate throws, addressing fundamental aspects of his game that require attention.
Overall, Will Howard presents himself as a developmental quarterback with a high ceiling. His draft projection as a mid-to-late-round pick reflects both his potential and the areas where he needs to improve. Teams seeking a quarterback to groom behind an established starter or as a future prospect may find Howard's skill set appealing. The ultimate trajectory of his NFL career will depend on his ability to harness his strengths, address his weaknesses, and adapt to the complexities of the professional game. With the right coaching and developmental support, Howard has the opportunity to evolve into a valuable asset for an NFL team, showcasing his talent and contributing to their success on the field.
FAQ About Will Howard and the NFL Draft
What are Will Howard's key strengths as an NFL prospect?
Will Howard’s arm strength stands out, enabling him to make deep and challenging throws. His mobility allows him to extend plays and evade pressure, making him a dual-threat quarterback. Also, he’s known for his leadership skills, commanding the offense and earning the respect of his teammates, which are all highly valued in the NFL. — Countdown To October 17: Key Dates And Events
What are the primary areas where Will Howard needs to improve?
Will Howard’s consistency in accuracy and decision-making needs enhancement. Reducing turnovers by making better reads under pressure is crucial. Also, refining his footwork and throwing mechanics will improve his overall performance and accuracy on the field, addressing key technical aspects of his game.
Which NFL teams might be a good fit for Will Howard?
Teams seeking a developmental quarterback could find Howard appealing. The Raiders, Saints, and Seahawks, with established quarterbacks, could be ideal for Howard to learn and develop behind the scenes. These teams can provide the coaching and experience needed to refine his skills.
How does Will Howard's draft stock compare to other quarterbacks in the 2024 NFL Draft class?
Compared to other quarterbacks, Will Howard is projected as a mid-to-late-round pick. Some quarterbacks in the draft have higher grades due to their experience and consistency, but Howard’s potential and physical tools make him an intriguing prospect for teams willing to invest in his development. — 17/18 As A Percentage: Quick Calculation & Explanation
What impact could Will Howard have on an NFL team?
Will Howard could be a valuable backup with the potential to develop into a starter. His arm strength and athleticism can add a dynamic element to an offense. With proper coaching and development, he could become a long-term asset for an NFL team, contributing both on and off the field.
What should NFL teams consider when evaluating Will Howard?
When evaluating Will Howard, NFL teams should consider his arm talent, mobility, and leadership potential. Teams should also assess his consistency, decision-making under pressure, and mechanics. It's important to consider how well he fits into their offensive scheme and how their coaching staff can develop his raw talent.
Has Will Howard participated in the NFL Combine, and what were his results?
The NFL Combine is an important event where prospects showcase their athletic abilities and skills. Specific results from the NFL Combine, if available, offer insights into Will Howard's speed, agility, and strength. These results can affect his draft stock, providing teams with objective data on his physical capabilities. (Needs Verification)
What is Will Howard's playing style, and how does it translate to the NFL?
Will Howard's playing style is characterized by his strong arm and ability to make plays outside the pocket. He’s a dual-threat quarterback who can extend drives with his legs. His playing style fits well in the modern NFL, where quarterbacks are expected to be versatile and capable of making plays both in and out of the pocket.
External Links:
- Kansas State Official Athletics Website: https://www.kstatesports.com/
- NFL Official Website: https://www.nfl.com/
- ESPN NFL Draft Coverage: https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft
