With Kansas State Football entering a new era under Chris Klieman with a new quarterback under center, Will Howard’s decision to enter the transfer portal signified a mutual change for both parties.
The former Wildcat recently spoke about the process of transferring to Ohio State at the Manning Passing Academy and detailed some of the challenges associated with the portal.
“It’s tough, yeah. And you know, it’s so normalized nowadays that people don’t really think about it,” Howard said. “It’s a tough process, the transition, especially for a guy like me who was at K-State for four years, really cemented, was comfortable, knew all the guys. You know, going to a new place is kind of what I needed, a step out of my comfort zone. I was ready for that. It’s not easy by any stretch.”
Howard was one of the highest-profile quarterbacks to enter the transfer portal this offseason, so Ryan Day and Ohio State quickly identified the Pennsylvania native as their primary target. Howard spent a little over two months in the portal and was linked to several different programs before committing to Ohio State.
For Chris Klieman and the Wildcats, the program looks to rising sophomore Avery Johnson to take the helm after showing some impressive flashes as a true freshman in 2023. In his limited appearances, Johnson posted a 91.3 QBR, totaling 775 all-purpose yards and a touchdown touchdown-to-interception 5-0. He also recorded five scores on the ground in his freshman season.
While the transfer portal appears to show no signs of slowing down anytime soon, Kansas State’s 2023 quarterback room, featuring Howard and Johnson, could be remembered for having two of the best quarterbacks in college football.
