Will Howard: Hand Injury | Injury Update | Where Did He Get Drafted?
Will Howard is a name that has garnered increasing attention in college football circles and now among NFL analysts. With his strong arm, imposing frame, and natural leadership, Howard’s journey from college standout to potential NFL contributor has been full of promise — and a few hurdles. One such roadblock is his recent hand injury, which left fans and scouts wondering about his status and draft prospects.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Will Howard’s hand injury, provide the latest injury update, and analyze where he got drafted, along with what’s next in his professional journey.
Who Is Will Howard?
Will Howard is a talented American football quarterback known for his tenure at Kansas State University and later Ohio State. Born on September 24, 2001, in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, Howard quickly became known for his physicality (standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 242 pounds) and poise under center.
He began his college career at Kansas State, where he gradually developed into a reliable starter. Howard later transferred to Ohio State University for the 2024 season, where he aimed to enhance his draft stock and showcase his NFL-caliber skills under a more prominent program.
College Career Highlights
Before diving into the specifics of Will Howard’s hand injury, it’s crucial to understand why he was on NFL radars in the first place.
Kansas State (2020–2023)
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Debut Season (2020): As a true freshman, Howard was thrust into the spotlight after an injury to starting quarterback Skylar Thompson. He played in 7 games, showing flashes of potential despite expected rookie mistakes.
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2021–2022 Seasons: Howard’s confidence and mechanics improved, helping Kansas State compete strongly in the Big 12. He shared reps but proved himself as a dynamic quarterback who could run and throw.
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2022 Breakout: Threw for over 1,600 yards with 15 TDs and just 4 INTs in limited games. He played a pivotal role in Kansas State’s Big 12 Championship.
Ohio State Transfer (2024)
In a surprising move, Howard transferred to Ohio State for his final year of eligibility. He aimed to lead the Buckeyes’ offense and cement himself as a top-tier NFL quarterback. Before the injury, he had led the team to several key wins and showed command in the pocket, raising hopes for a strong draft projection.
Will Howard Hand Injury: What Happened?
The Incident
Will Howard suffered a hand injury during a mid-season game in late 2024 while playing for Ohio State. The injury occurred during a scramble play where Howard took a direct hit to his throwing hand as he attempted to release the football under pressure.
Diagnosis
Initial tests revealed a hairline fracture in the metacarpal bone of his right hand (throwing hand). While not a season-ending injury, it was enough to sideline him for a crucial stretch of the season. There were concerns about whether he could return before bowl games or even participate in the NFL Combine.
Impact on Performance
The injury affected:
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His grip on the ball
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Throwing velocity
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Accuracy on deep throws
Coaches initially attempted to manage the injury with rest and limited reps, but a full game return wasn’t feasible until healing was complete.
Will Howard Injury Update (2025)
Recovery Timeline
Following the injury:
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Howard underwent minor surgery to stabilize the fracture.
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He wore a soft cast for 2 weeks.
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After 4 weeks, he returned to light throwing drills.
Return to Play
Howard made his return during Ohio State’s bowl game appearance in January 2025. Though not at 100%, he delivered a composed and efficient performance, completing 18 of 25 passes with 2 touchdowns and no interceptions. That outing helped restore some confidence in his draft evaluation.
NFL Combine & Pro Day
Although he missed portions of the NFL Combine due to recovery, he participated fully in Ohio State’s Pro Day, where he impressed scouts with his:
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Deep-ball accuracy
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Measured footwork
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Command in 7-on-7 drills
Medical re-checks showed the hand had healed completely, with no long-term concerns reported.
Where Did Will Howard Get Drafted?
NFL Draft 2025: Draft Position
Despite the hand injury raising concerns during the scouting process, Will Howard was ultimately drafted in the 5th round (Pick 148 overall) of the 2025 NFL Draft by the Las Vegas Raiders.
Why the Raiders?
The Raiders were reportedly intrigued by:
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His size and arm strength
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Toughness and leadership traits
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Fit within their evolving offensive scheme
They saw him as a developmental quarterback with starter potential. The team was looking for depth behind their current starter and believed Howard had the upside to contribute if given time to adjust.
Scouting Report: Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
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Arm Strength: Capable of making all NFL throws
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Size and Durability: Built like a prototypical quarterback
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Experience: Played in high-pressure situations in college
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Leadership: Known as a vocal and resilient leader
Weaknesses
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Consistency: Still developing in terms of reading complex defenses
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Mobility: Mobile enough but not a dual-threat QB
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Injury History: Minor hand injury may have scared some teams off
What Does the Future Hold for Will Howard?
Short-Term Outlook
Howard is expected to begin the 2025 NFL season as the QB3 on the Raiders’ depth chart. However, with strong performances in preseason or due to injury, he could rise to a backup role by midseason.
Long-Term Projection
If he continues developing under professional coaching and stays healthy, Howard has a ceiling as a reliable NFL starter. His mental toughness, as shown during his recovery from the hand injury, positions him as a player to watch.
How Fans and Analysts Reacted
Fan Support
Ohio State fans were vocal in their support during his injury. Many believed he was key to the team’s offensive rhythm and praised his decision to return to play rather than sit out to protect his draft stock.
Analyst Opinions
NFL Draft experts had mixed reviews. Some ranked him as a top-10 QB prospect; others dropped him due to his injury history and inconsistent tape. After his Pro Day, however, many revised their rankings, recognizing the hand injury was no longer a major issue.
Comparison With Other QBs in the 2025 Draft
Compared to fellow 2025 quarterback draftees like:
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Jalen Milroe (1st Round, Falcons)
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Michael Pratt (3rd Round, Commanders)
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Riley Leonard (6th Round, Broncos)
Howard was seen as more of a project but with considerable upside. His leadership and toughness separated him from some flashier but less consistent prospects.
Final Thoughts
Will Howard’s journey from a promising high school quarterback to a college standout and now an NFL draftee has been anything but straightforward. His hand injury, while a temporary setback, showcased his mental strength and resilience.
Now, as a Las Vegas Raider, he has the opportunity to grow, learn, and prove he belongs in the league. Whether he becomes a long-term starter or a high-quality backup, Howard’s determination and physical tools make him a valuable addition to any roster.
FAQs About Will Howard
Q: What injury did Will Howard suffer?
A: He suffered a hairline fracture in his throwing hand during the 2024 college season.
Q: Did Will Howard return after the injury?
A: Yes, he returned for Ohio State’s bowl game and performed well.
Q: Where did Will Howard get drafted?
A: He was drafted by the Las Vegas Raiders in the 5th round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Q: Is Will Howard fully recovered?
A: Yes, he is medically cleared and participated fully in Pro Day workouts.
Q: What is Will Howard’s playing style?
A: He is a pocket passer with strong arm strength, good size, and the ability to lead an offense effectively.
