As college football evolves, so does the answer to a once-simple question:
When a player gets drafted, which school do they represent?
With the NFL Draft set to begin Thursday, April 24, that question is front and center for fans of Kansas State and Ohio State—and it starts with Will Howard.
The former Kansas State quarterback transferred to Ohio State ahead of the 2024 season and led the Buckeyes to a national championship, capping a journey that few quarterbacks in the portal era can match.
But as he walks across the draft stage, who claims him?
Is Howard a Wildcat? A Buckeye? Or both?
A Legacy in Manhattan
Howard spent four seasons at Kansas State, appearing in 34 games and making 27 starts. He led the Wildcats to a Big 12 title in 2022 and left the program as one of its most productive passers:
- School record: 48 career touchdown passes
- Top 5 in completions (458), passing yards (5,786), and total offense per game (197.3)
He was a developmental success story — a former three-star recruit who battled adversity, lost his starting job, and won it back. Under head coach Chris Klieman, Howard became the face of the program.
Even after transferring, Howard continued to speak highly of his time in Manhattan and supported the program publicly. The bond didn’t break.
A Champion in Columbus
At Ohio State, Howard’s story took on a new chapter — and a new shine.
He led the Buckeyes through one of the most memorable College Football Playoff runs in recent history, taking down No. 9 Tennessee, No. 1 Oregon, No. 5 Texas, and No. 7 Notre Dame en route to the national title.
He wasn’t just a transfer QB — he was the guy.
Yes, there were tough moments — including regular-season losses to Michigan and Oregon. But in the postseason, Howard delivered when it counted, quickly becoming a fan favorite in Columbus.
Two Homes, One Journey
In today’s college football landscape, the transfer portal has rewritten the rules of legacy. Howard is a perfect example.
K-State fans will forever remember the quarterback who helped raise a trophy in Arlington. Buckeye Nation will never forget the leader who brought a national title back to Columbus.
And the NFL? They’ll be getting a battle-tested veteran who’s won big games, taken criticism, and thrived under pressure.
Will Howard isn’t just a Wildcat or a Buckeye.
Short answer: He’s both.
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