JUST IN: 5-Star Quarterback Will Howard Stuns College Football World — Decommits from Ohio State and Commits to Florida Gators Over Florida State and Missouri
Gainesville, FL — July 18, 2025
In a seismic shift on the college football recruiting trail, 5-star quarterback Will Howard (6’4”, 236 lbs) has officially decommitted from the Ohio State Buckeyes and announced his stunning commitment to the Florida Gators, choosing the Swamp over fierce in-state rival Florida State Seminoles and rising contender Missouri Tigers.
The announcement, made via a live stream on Howard’s social media pages, instantly lit up the college football landscape and sent Gator Nation into a frenzy.
> “After long conversations with my family, coaches, and mentors, I’ve decided to flip my commitment,” Howard said. “I’m officially headed to Gainesville. Go Gators! 🐊”
A Program-Altering Pickup
Ranked as the No. 2 quarterback and No. 5 overall prospect in the 2025 class, Howard’s commitment marks a massive victory for Head Coach Billy Napier and new Offensive Coordinator Emmitt Smith, who reportedly played a pivotal role in securing the elite signal-caller.
“Will is a generational talent — big, athletic, smart, and a natural leader,” said Coach Napier. “His decision speaks volumes about where this program is headed. We’re building something special in Gainesville.”
Howard, known for his cannon arm, poise under pressure, and dual-threat ability, threw for over 4,500 yards and 48 touchdowns while rushing for 900+ yards during his junior season. Scouts have compared him to a young Josh Allen, calling him “the complete package.”
Why Florida?
Insiders close to the recruitment say the hiring of Emmitt Smith as offensive coordinator was the final spark that turned the tide.
“Having Emmitt Smith — an NFL legend — lead this offense? That was huge,” Howard admitted. “The culture, the energy, the future… I see myself thriving in Florida’s system.”
Sources also revealed that Howard was impressed by Florida’s commitment to NIL opportunities, player development, and its reenergized locker room culture.
What This Means
With Howard now at the helm of the Gators’ 2025 class, Florida skyrockets into the national Top 3 in recruiting rankings. This decision is also a devastating blow for Ohio State, who had considered Howard their future cornerstone, and a major win over rival Florida State, who were in the mix until the final hours.
The Gator Nation Reacts
From alumni to fans to current players, the reaction has been explosive.
> “Game-changer. Flat out game-changer,” tweeted former Gator QB Tim Tebow.
“The Swamp just got its future leader. Let’s go!”
Next Steps
Howard is expected to enroll early and participate in spring practice, with analysts predicting he could compete for the starting job from day one.
With his commitment secured and the energy in Gainesville boiling over, one thing is clear: Florida football is on the rise — and Will Howard is leading the charge.
Welcome to
the Gator family, QB1. The future is now. 🐊🔥
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