Raiders Senior Bowl Preview: The rise of Will Howard could make him intriguing

Playoff run has created a buzz around the QB’s potential at the next level

The Las Vegas Raiders’ search for a franchise quarterback has gone flat since the release of Derek Carr. The turnover at the position has been constant the past two seasons, and it needs to find an answer to compete in today’s NFL.

That’s where the Raiders could look to the draft. The Silver and Black sit at the sixth position and could have a chance at a quarterback. Also, if they feel a player is good enough to take at 39 in the second, they could wait and still find a franchise-caliber QB.

The Senior Bowl once again features the country’s top players, and the quarterback position is loaded with household names. One of them is Will Howard from Ohio State, Howard has created a buzz after leading Ohio State. to its first championship since 2014.

Howard started his career at Kansas State, where he started for three seasons. He was plagued with injuries and never could reach his full potential. In 2024, he transferred to Ohio State, having a career season with 42 total touchdowns and 10 interceptions. His production in the playoffs helped Ohio State become national champions this season.

Howard has the size that NFL scouts love at the quarterback position. He is 6-5 and 235 pounds with the arm strength to make any throw on the field. Add that to his ability to use his legs, and he makes for an intriguing prospect to watch at the senior bowl.

Howard’s arm talent is displayed on this throw against Oregon. He faces a cover 2 look with his receiver running a seam route between the safeties. Howard throws a beautiful ball right over the defender and places it in the bucket for a touchdown.

Against Penn State, he is running a play-action bootleg with an over route. He has quick pressure in his face but can fade and throw a great pass with touch for a big gain. This is not an easy throw, and Howard makes it look routine.

He even has the ability to make plays outside of the pocket. Against Oregon, he doesn’t have anyone open downfield and scrambles to his left. He then finds Jeremiah Smith under pressure with the flick of his wrist, leading to a touchdown for Ohio State.

In the red zone, Howard can help score touchdowns during the run game. He had seven rushing touchdowns during the season, and his size adds another element to the offense inside the red zone.

Howard’s biggest issue is turnovers. He had a 3.6 turnover-worthy play rate this season as the quarterback for Ohio State. On the play below, It displays Howard’s tendency to lock on to his pre-snap read. He falls for the trap coverage by Penn State, leading to a pick-six.

Regarding the quarterback position in the modern NFL, Howard has the skill set that has led to success. The Senior Bowl will be a big week for him, and where he lands in the draft will come in April. He will be a must-watch for Raiders fans during the practices.