Ex-Ohio State star Will Howard gets support from Shedeur Sanders amid harsh scouting combine criticism

A Rocky Start at the NFL Combine for Will Howard

The NFL scouting combine is always a high-pressure event for aspiring football players, and this year, quarterback Will Howard found himself in the spotlight for both the right and wrong reasons. The former Ohio State quarterback, who recently led the Buckeyes to a national championship, showcased his impressive arm strength during the drills. However, his performance was marred by inconsistent accuracy, which quickly became a talking point on social media. Some critics went as far as to label his outing as one of the worst combine performances in history. Despite the backlash, Howard managed to draw some positive feedback, particularly from NFL Network’s draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah. Jeremiah acknowledged that while some of Howard’s throws looked "flat," he still had a "solid" overall performance and looked "very comfortable from under center," a crucial trait for any quarterback entering the NFL.

A Defender in Shedeur Sanders

Not everyone was quick to write off Howard’s combine performance. Incoming draft prospect Shedeur Sanders, who is expected to be one of the top picks in the 2024 NFL Draft, jumped to Howard’s defense on social media. Sanders, the former Colorado Buffaloes quarterback, tweeted, "I don’t understand y’all hating on @whoward_ he just won a natty. It’s hard to throw to WR’s that you don’t know, everyone run routes different!" His comments highlighted the difficulties of performing in a high-stakes environment with unfamiliar receivers, a challenge many draft prospects face at the combine. Sanders’ support for Howard not only showcased camaraderie among players but also reminded everyone that the combine is just one aspect of evaluating a player’s potential.

A National Champion with Pro Potential

Will Howard’s journey to the NFL has been nothing short of remarkable. He began his collegiate career at Kansas State before transferring to Ohio State prior to the 2024 season. In his lone season as the Buckeyes’ quarterback, Howard led the team to a national championship, throwing for 4,010 passing yards and 35 touchdowns. These numbers are a testament to his ability to perform under pressure and deliver when it matters most. While his combine performance may have raised some questions, his collegiate achievements undoubtedly demonstrate his potential to excel at the next level. Howard’s story is a reminder that the road to the NFL is rarely linear, and success in college doesn’t always translate seamlessly to the combine or the pros.

Draft Prospects and the Road Ahead

As the NFL Draft approaches, Will Howard’s stock remains a topic of discussion. Currently, he is projected to be a Day 2 or Day 3 pick, meaning he could be selected anywhere from the second to the seventh round. However, this could change in the coming weeks as teams delve deeper into their evaluations and conduct private workouts. Howard’s performance at Ohio State and his ability to win a national championship could still sway teams in his favor. For now, he finds himself in a precarious position, hoping to prove his doubters wrong and solidify his place in the minds of NFL scouts and coaches. The next few weeks will be crucial for Howard as he works to improve his draft position.

Measuring Up: Howard’s Combine Numbers

At the combine, Howard’s physical abilities were put to the test. He recorded a 31.5-inch vertical jump, a 9-foot-4-inch broad jump, and turned in a 7.13-second cone drill and a 4.33-second 20-yard shuttle. These numbers provide a snapshot of his athleticism and agility, traits that are highly valued in NFL quarterbacks. While his performance in the drills didn’t blew everyone away, they did show that he possesses the physical tools necessary to compete at the professional level. Combine measurements are just one piece of the puzzle, but they can play a significant role in shaping a player’s draft profile.

The Bigger Picture: A Human Side to the Combine

The NFL combine is often viewed as a make-or-break event for draft prospects, but it’s important to remember that these athletes are more than just their stats and performances. Will Howard’s journey, from transferring schools to leading his team to a national championship, is a testament to his resilience and determination. The criticism he faced after the combine is a reminder of the intense scrutiny these players endure. Shedeur Sanders’ support for Howard also highlights the camaraderie that exists among athletes, even in the cutthroat world of professional sports. As the draft approaches, it’s worth keeping things in perspective—these players are chasing their dreams, and the road to the NFL is rarely easy.

In the end, Will Howard’s story is one of both challenge and triumph. While his combine performance may have raised some eyebrows, his accomplishments on the field and his determination off it should not be overlooked. As he prepares for the next chapter of his football career, Howard has the opportunity to prove his doubters wrong and carve out his own path in the NFL.