A quarterback who wasn’t supposed to be the answer. A running back who might be the best in the class but still has something to prove. Two Ohio State Buckeyes, both set to shake up the 2025 NFL Draft, but for very different reasons under Ryan Day. One entered the draft a year early after racking up 14 TDs moments after they lifted the natty for OSU. While Will Howard just came for a year, conquered, and now is leaving as a Bucks legend. And he might land where his former OC is. And this Ole Miss transfer makes a statement with his scissors like “footwork” in the lab. As they are forcing scouts and analysts to rethink everything.

Will Howard wasn’t just an afterthought when he arrived in Columbus—he was seen as a potential liability. The Kansas State transfer wasn’t the high-profile superstar fans had been hoping for, and heading into the 2024 season, there were real questions about whether he could be the guy to lead Ohio State back to the promised land.

Well, he was. And then some. Thirty-five touchdowns. Ten interceptions. A national championship. That’s why now, NFL Rookie Watch didn’t mince words on X. “Will Howard is WORTHY of a first-round pick and there’s not much to say he’s not.” That’s a better season than either CJ Stroud or Justin Fields had at Ohio State, and they both went in the first round. But will teams see Howard as a true franchise quarterback?

The Las Vegas Raiders might have an answer. With former Ohio State offensive coordinator Chip Kelly now in their building, the rumors are already swirling about a potential reunion. The Raiders have two early third-round picks, and if Howard slips past Day 1, he could be a steal for a team looking to rebuild its quarterback room. His pocket presence, field vision, and ability to make plays off-script make him an intriguing option, but some scouts still view him as more of a project. The upside? Enormous. According to many reports, the 6 ft 4 QB is not going to be a first-round pick. He’ll be a third-rounder.

While Howard’s stock rises, Quinshon Judkins is making sure he doesn’t slip. The Ole Miss transfer was electric for Ohio State this past season. But in a deep running back class, even the best can get overlooked. That’s why Judkins has taken matters into his own hands—literally. Training with elite RB coach Josh Hicks, he’s sharpening the very skills that made him one of the most dangerous backs in college football. NFL Rookie Watch took notice, posting, “His footwork looks absolutely INSANE.”

Scouts have drawn comparisons to Alvin Kamara, and for good reason. Judkins doesn’t just run—he manipulates defenses, setting up his blocks with the patience and vision that few backs possess. Then, when the moment comes, he explodes through the gap like a missile. The New York Giants could be watching closely. After giving away Saquon Barkley, the Giants need a running back who can be a difference-maker from Day 1. Judkins fits that mold perfectly. He’s a back who can create his own lanes, excel as a pass-catcher, and provide the kind of versatility that modern NFL offenses crave. The problem? The depth of talent in this class could push him down the board, making him one of the biggest potential steals of the draft.

In a few months, Will Howard and Quinshon Judkins will hear their names called, but their stories are already being written.

Big prediction on the OSU’s RB Quinshon Judkins

Quinshon Judkins is the definition of a Swiss Army knife in the backfield. At 6-foot, 215 lbs, he’s got a compact, versatile frame that allows him to bounce off defenders, change direction on a dime, and keep plays alive. His quickness, agility, vision, and tough-as-nails running style make him a name to watch in the 2025 NFL Draft.

NFL Rookie Watch reported that some scouts already see him as a first-round talent, but SB Nation sees him as more of a second-round steal, potentially landing with the New York Giants. Either way, his stock is climbing. With the strengths he possesses, the guy plays like every carry could be his last.

Quickness & Agility – His cutting ability is nasty, making defenders whiff in open space. Vision – Sees lanes before they open and make the most of every opportunity. Contact Balance – Bounces off hits and keeps churning for extra yards. Pass-Game Ability – A reliable option on third downs.

And his weaknesses are, Top-End Speed – He’s more of a chunk-gainer than a home-run hitter. Explosiveness – Doesn’t always hit the hole like a missile. Power – Can get through contact but isn’t exactly Derrick Henry.

Judkins is a “Jack Of All Trades” running back, and that will largely work in his favor. However, he doesn’t have any one area in which he truly excels.