QB Will Howard makes strong statement at Ohio State pro day

"I think I showed I can throw the ball at every level," Howard said of his performance, per The Athletic's Zac Jackson. "I feel like my leadership, my intelligence and my arm strength [stand out]. I believe in myself. That's not a knock on any other quarterback in this draft. I think I'm the best, and if you don't feel like you're the best to come out this year, then why are you doing this? I feel like I have what it takes to be a QB1 in the NFL, and whatever franchise takes me is not going to regret it." 

On his updated big board, The Athletic's Dane Brugler rates the 6-foot-4, 236-pounder as his QB6.

At the Buckeyes pro day, Howard may not have proved he can thrive without Ohio State's loaded receiving corps, which includes WR Emeka Egbuka (6-foot-1, 202 pounds). In his latest mock draft, ESPN's Mike Tannenbaum, a former GM, has the Bills taking Egbuka with pick No. 30. 

The 23-year-old didn't throw for more than 24 TD passes in four seasons at Kansas State. It's worth noting he didn't become a full-time starter until the 2023 season. 

Howard, however, guided Ohio State to a national championship in 2024, tossing 35 TD passes in 16 games. 

His pro day may show he must land in the right system to succeed in the NFL. If the QB does, he may continue to operate at a high level.