In the wake of Ohio State’s college championship victory, few moments drew more attention than a surprise endorsement from President Donald Trump. With the spotlight already on quarterback Will Howard, Trump’s bold six-word prediction – “Ohhh he’s gonna be so rich,” sent social media into overdrive and added fuel to Howard’s rapidly rising NFL Draft buzz.
President Donald Trump’s Viral 6-Word Prediction Boosts Buzz Around Will Howard’s NFL Future
The comment came after Howard cemented his status as a Buckeye legend with a championship-clinching performance against Notre Dame in January. Completing 17 of 21 passes for 231 yards and two touchdowns, along with 57 rushing yards, Howard led OSU to its first national title since 2014.
Reflecting on the moment, he said, “Coming to Ohio was the best decision I’ve made,” a nod to his transformative transfer from Kansas State.
Howard’s story is one of resilience ͏an͏͏d reinvention. A former three-star recruit from ͏Downingtown, Pa., he͏ began his college ͏career at ͏Kansas Stat͏e in 2020, where he ͏struggled early, posting a sub-55%͏ ͏completion rate͏͏ and more interceptions than touchdowns over his ͏first two years.
But byÍŹ 2023, Howard had improved dramatically, ÍŹleading the ÍŹWildcats to anÍŹ 8-4 ÍŹrecord ÍŹand earning secondÍŹ-ÍŹteam ÍŹAll-ÍŹBig 12ÍŹ honors.
Transferring to Ohio State for his final season, Howard took his game to new heights. He threw for 4,010 yards, 35 touchdowns, and ÍŹ10 interceptions whileÍŹ completing 73% of ÍŹhis passes andÍŹ posting a 14-2 record. He was named third-team All-Big Ten and Offensive MVP of the national championship game.
Scouts have taken notice. At 6’4” and 235 pounds, Howard fits the NFL prototype. His strong arm, compact release, and ability to make tight-window throws give him an intriguing upside. He’s also shown potential as a pocket passer, improved downfield accuracy, and underrated mobility.
Still, there are question marks. Evaluators remain cautious due to Howard’s early-career inconsistencies and skittish footwork under pressure. He tends to favor his first read and needs to improve his ability to process full-field progressions. Some also argue that Ohio State’s quarterback-friendly system may have inflated his 2024 stats.
Despite these concerns, Howard’s rise from backup to champion is difficult to ignore. While he’s currently projected as a Day 3 pick, the relatively weak QB class in 2025 could push him higher. His physical traits, paired with his late-career breakout, make him a compelling developmental prospect.
Trump’s declaration may not move draft boards, but it underscores what many are already thinking — Howard isn’t just a good story, he might just be the NFL’s next breakout.