Breaking: 5-Star QB Will Howard Decommits from Ohio State, Chooses Tennessee Over Kentucky and Florida State….
Breaking: 5-Star QB Will Howard Decommits from Ohio State, Chooses Tennessee Over Kentucky and Florida State
In a stunning turn of events on the recruiting trail, 5-star quarterback Will Howard has officially decommitted from the Ohio State Buckeyes and announced his commitment to the Tennessee Volunteers. The 6-foot-4, 236-pound signal-caller had been heavily pursued by several top programs, including the Kentucky Wildcats and Florida State Seminoles, but ultimately chose to bring his talents to Knoxville.
A Game-Changer for Tennessee
Howard’s decision is a massive win for head coach Josh Heupel and the Volunteers’ coaching staff. Known for his ability to make big plays both in the air and on the ground, Howard brings a rare combination of size, arm strength, and mobility to the Tennessee offense. Heupel, who has developed some of the nation’s most dynamic quarterbacks in recent years, now has another elite prospect to mold into a future SEC star.
“After a lot of thought and conversations with my family, I’ve decided that Tennessee is the best place for me to grow as a player and as a person,” Howard said in his announcement. “The coaching staff, the culture, and the fan base made this an easy decision.”
Why Tennessee Over Kentucky and Florida State?
While Kentucky and Florida State made strong pushes, Tennessee’s offensive system and quarterback development track record played key roles in Howard’s choice. The Volunteers have gained a reputation for their high-powered, fast-paced offense under Heupel, which has helped produce top-tier quarterback talent.
Kentucky, led by head coach Mark Stoops, presented an attractive option with its emerging offensive scheme and a strong push for elite talent in recent years. Florida State, coming off a strong season, also made a compelling case for Howard to join their rebuilding powerhouse. However, Tennessee’s vision for the future, coupled with the opportunity to compete in the SEC, sealed the deal.
What It Means for Ohio State
Howard’s decommitment is a tough blow for the Buckeyes, who had been counting on him as a key piece of their future quarterback room. Ohio State has historically been a dominant force in recruiting quarterbacks, but losing a player of Howard’s caliber could force them to reevaluate their plans for the upcoming class.
However, with their strong recruiting pipeline, Ohio State is expected to pivot quickly and pursue other top quarterback prospects to fill the void.
The Future in Knoxville
Tennessee fans have every reason to celebrate, as Howard’s commitment signals a continued resurgence for the Volunteers. With his size, athleticism, and arm talent, he has the potential to be a game-changer in the SEC. If Heupel and his staff can maximize his abilities, Howard could be the next elite quarterback to emerge from Rocky Top.
For now, the Tennessee faithful can sit back and dream of the future, knowing that one of the top quarterbacks in the nation is on his way to Neyland Stadium. Welcome to the Tennessee family, Will Howard!
