Ohio State Reacts to National Champion QB Will Howard Being Drafted by Steelers

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Sullivan | Last updated Apr 26, 2025 4:52 PM ET

The Buckeyes have tied a common draft era record with 14 players selected through six rounds of the NFL draft — the latest being national champion quarterback and MVP Will Howard, who was taken by the Pittsburgh Steelers with the 185th overall pick.

Howard, a Pennsylvania native, is a story of grit and resilience. Despite never being recruited by Penn State — a school he once dreamed of playing for — or several other major programs, he spent four seasons at Kansas State before transferring to Ohio State for his fifth and final year. In Columbus, he delivered a standout campaign in the Big Ten, leading the Buckeyes to a national championship.

Following the announcement of his selection, Ohio State quickly reacted to the news of Howard landing with the Steelers — a team with a wide-open quarterback room as they await clarity on Aaron Rodgers’ future.

"Chill Will is now chillin’ in Pittsburgh," Ohio State posted.

Chill Will is now chillin’ in Pittsburgh
@whoward_ x @steelers
#DevelopedHere | #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/MI9IytCxle
— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) April 26, 2025

Ohio State fans erupted with joy upon seeing Howard get drafted:

"Happy for Will but this one hurts as a Browns fan," a fan said.

"As a Bengal fan, this one hurts. But congratulations, Will," another fan posted.

"He gonna be “Iron Will” from now on lol," someone else added.

One more fan commented, "Best quarterback in the draft!!"

Last season, Howard completed 73.0% of his passes for 4,010 yards, 35 touchdowns, and just 10 interceptions. He also added 226 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on 105 carries, showcasing his dual-threat ability.

He now enters a Steelers quarterback room that currently includes only Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson. As it stands, Howard could have a legitimate shot to compete for the starting job. Yet, as mentioned, the expectation remains that Rodgers will potentially join at some point this offseason.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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