The Raiders are a team in quarterback limbo. While they’ve brought in veteran Geno Smith and still have Aidan O’Connell on the roster, they haven’t found their long-term answer. The Raiders hosted Howard on a pre-draft visit, and his strong frame and game management skills mesh well with head coach Pete Carroll.
Drafting Howard in the middle rounds could give the Jets a developmental option with big-game experience.
The Colts may already have Anthony Richardson as their presumed franchise quarterback, but depth is needed. Head coach Shane Steichen has shown he can work wonders with athletic quarterbacks, and Howard fits that mold. Though not as dynamic a runner as Richardson, Howard moves well enough to operate in an RPO-heavy scheme.
The Saints have a quarterback conundrum. Derek Carr is under contract, but he could miss time in 2025. They’re actively evaluating mid-round quarterbacks who can develop behind him. With his 6-foot-5, 240-pound frame and four years of college football under his belt, Howard checks many boxes.
The Rams are searching for a long-term plan behind Matthew Stafford. With injuries continuing to plague Stafford, Sean McVay needs a backup who can grasp the playbook quickly. According to ESPN draft analyst Jordan Reid, Howard’s intelligence and work ethic stood out during interviews at the Combine.
