A Quarterback’s Big Move: Money, Power and a Fresh Start
Will Howard made a headline‑making switch from Kansas State to Ohio State, chasing better pay and more respect.
He was set to start at Kansas State after a Big 12 title, but the new freshman backup, Avery Johnson, landed a bigger name‑and‑money deal. Howard felt Kansas State had “taken advantage” of him and decided to go elsewhere.
The Ohio State Deal
- One‑year contract worth several million dollars
- Includes a house and a car—much more than he earned playing for the Wildcats
Howard used this money to help lead Ohio State to a national championship, showing how much more valuable he was at his new school.
A Financial Shock
- Earned about $500,000 as a rookie with the Pittsburgh Steelers last season
- Ohio State deal made him richer than he was in the NFL, proving how lucrative college NIL deals can be
- Now one of Ohio State’s most talked‑about transfers for 2024
Kansas State’s Situation
- The coaching staff had already brought in Johnson, a top‑100 recruit with a dual‑threat style
- Coaches saw him as the future starter, leaving Howard feeling sidelined and underpaid
- He shared that games were split with Johnson “for no reason other than money going to him.”
- Johnson, now a senior at Kansas State, has racked up 43 passing touchdowns and 15 rushing scores in two seasons
- Kansas State didn’t hold a spring game this offseason, leaving players in limbo
The Bigger Picture
Howard’s move illustrates how money can shift loyalties. He said the decision to leave was “the best decision I ever made,” highlighting how financial incentives can override team loyalty. His story reminds us that player treatment and compensation are changing the landscape of college football.
