In a stunning twist that has reshaped the 2025 college football recruiting landscape, 6-star quarterback Will Howard, the nation’s No. 1 overall player and a generational talent under center, has announced his decommitment from the Ohio State Buckeyes. The 6-foot-4, 236-pound rocket-armed phenom has flipped his commitment to the Miami Hurricanes, choosing the program over other finalists Georgia and Missouri.
Howard’s decision has sent shockwaves across the country, signaling a seismic shift not just in Miami’s recruiting outlook, but in the very balance of power in college football. As one of the most hyped quarterback prospects in the past decade—drawing comparisons to Andrew Luck and Justin Herbert—Howard’s commitment to the Hurricanes sets the stage for what could be a renaissance era in Coral Gables.
A Decision That Rocks the Nation
Will Howard’s recruitment was already one of the most watched in recent memory. A physically imposing quarterback with elite arm strength, pinpoint accuracy, surprising mobility, and a poise rarely seen in high school signal-callers, Howard committed to Ohio State early in the cycle, citing the Buckeyes’ rich quarterback history and offensive system.
But recent coaching staff shifts, philosophical differences in offensive scheme, and a desire to blaze his own path began to cloud his commitment to Columbus. Rumblings had been growing for weeks that Howard was re-evaluating his options. Then, without warning, the domino fell.
“I want to thank Ohio State, Coach Day, and the staff for believing in me and offering me a platform early,” Howard wrote in a statement. “But after deep reflection with my family and a lot of prayer, I’ve decided to reopen my recruitment. I’m committing to the University of Miami. The U is back.”
Why Miami? A Perfect Storm of Timing and Vision
Howard’s announcement is the biggest recruiting win for Miami since the early 2000s. Under head coach Mario Cristobal, the Hurricanes have steadily rebuilt a recruiting foundation based on toughness, identity, and long-term vision. This addition accelerates that process dramatically.
Sources close to Howard say Miami’s consistent presence, combined with a forward-thinking NIL infrastructure and offensive plans built around his skillset, were instrumental in the final decision.
“Miami made it clear from day one that I wasn’t just another quarterback,” Howard said in his exclusive sit-down with ESPN. “They made me feel like the quarterback. They laid out how they’d structure the offense, how they’d develop me, and how I could help lead a resurgence.”
Cristobal, speaking at a press conference shortly after the commitment was made public, could barely contain his excitement.
“This is a game-changer. Will is everything you want in a quarterback—leader, competitor, elite talent, and a relentless worker,” Cristobal said. “He’s the type of player who doesn’t just change your offense, he changes your entire program.”
Scouting Breakdown: The Tools of a Future No. 1 NFL Draft Pick
Will Howard is built like a prototype NFL quarterback. At 6’4” and 236 lbs, he possesses elite measurables and moves with the fluidity of a much smaller player. His throwing mechanics are clean and compact, and he generates tremendous velocity without sacrificing touch or trajectory.
Arm Strength: Howard can make every throw on the field. Whether it’s a 65-yard bomb on the run or a tight-window slant in traffic, he delivers with authority.
Football IQ: Coaches rave about Howard’s ability to process defenses pre- and post-snap. He makes complex reads look effortless and rarely puts the ball in harm’s way.