In a move that’s sending shockwaves across the college football landscape, Ohio State Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day has left fans stunned with a major announcement regarding star quarterback Will Howard’s NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) contract.
During a press conference that was originally expected to cover spring practice updates, Coach Day pivoted into a headline-making revelation about Howard’s off-field success. With a calm but proud demeanor, Day revealed that Will Howard has secured one of the largest NIL deals in Ohio State history, a contract that not only cements his place as a top-tier college athlete but also highlights the growing impact of NIL in shaping college football.
“This is bigger than football,” Day said. “Will is a leader, a competitor, and now, a pioneer in how student-athletes can represent themselves and this university on and off the field.”
While specific figures weren’t disclosed, sources close to the program suggest the deal includes seven figures, multi-brand endorsements, and a significant equity stake in a fast-rising tech startup based in Columbus. The move positions Howard not just as a top quarterback, but as a brand ambassador and rising business figure—a model increasingly common in the NIL era.
For fans, the announcement was a moment of awe. Social media exploded minutes after the news, with Buckeye Nation flooding timelines with praise and speculation about how this might affect recruiting, team culture, and future NIL negotiations.
Howard himself released a short statement via X (formerly Twitter), expressing gratitude:
“Honored and humbled. I came here to win championships—and represent this program with everything I’ve got. Let’s work.”
This latest chapter in Howard’s journey adds another layer of excitement to the Buckeyes’ 2025 season, with the team already considered a strong playoff contender. But beyond that, it signals Ohio State’s continued leadership in the NIL space—showing recruits, families, and fans that the Buckeyes aren’t just developing NFL-ready athletes, but also savvy entrepreneurs.
As the NIL landscape continues to evolve, one thing is clear: Ohio State and Will Howard are leading from the front—and Coach Ryan Day just made sure everyone knows it.
