Meet Bob and Maureen Howard: National Title Champion Will Howard’s Parents Who Helped Build a Star

With the 2025 NFL Draft now behind us, the spotlight is firmly on Ohio State’s star quarterback, Will Howard, as he begins his journey with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Howard, who was selected in the sixth round with the No. 185 overall pick, cemented his status as one of college football’s brightest stars after leading his team to a national championship.

But behind the success of this 6’5″ standout is the unwavering support of his parents, Bob and Maureen Howard, who have been instrumental in shaping his journey.

Meet Bob and Maureen Howard the Parents Who Helped Will Howard Become a National Champion

Born in West Chester, Pennsylvania, and raised in Downingtown, much of Will’s success comes from the support and values his parents, Bob and Maureen Howard, instilled in him.

Bob, a Penn State graduate, holds a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Villanova University. He worked as a vice president at Mellon Bank and M&T Bank. Despite not having a football background, Bob saw Will’s potential at a very young age.

Will Howard moments after the Steelers drafted him: pic.twitter.com/xs2DLFcUsc

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 27, 2025

In an interview, he shared, “Two years old, he was shooting baskets in the basement, making them. We said, ‘There’s something a little different about him.’” Bob’s encouragement helped Will develop his exceptional talent, which is now on display in college football, and soon he will showcase that in the NFL.

His mother, Maureen, also played a vital role in Will’s success. She earned a master’s degree in physical therapy from Temple University and worked as a pediatric physical therapist. While Maureen doesn’t have a sports background, her love for football and her constant support for Will have been invaluable.

From pushing him to focus on football during his school days to cheering him on during his big college games, Maureen has always been by Will’s side. She even became a fan favorite during Ohio State’s championship run, spotted at the Rose Bowl, Cotton Bowl, and National Championship cheering for her son.

Together, Bob and Maureen built a strong foundation that shaped Will into the disciplined and determined athlete he is today. However, they were aware of the highs and lows of this career, and as a family, they were prepared to manage those phases of Howard’s sports career.

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In November, Maureen said, “We knew that the college football journey has highs and lows, and you have to be ready for the rollercoaster ride, so I think that prepared us —like, ‘OK, let’s do it.’ There are going to be good moments, bad moments, and everything in between.”

When that level of unwavering support comes from a family, we can see stars like Howard as a national champion and NFL star.