**Stats:** 2025 (8 games) - 31 tackles, 10.5 TFL, 9.5 sacks, 3 PBU, 45 pressures, 24.7% win rate
Howell is an electric pass rusher providing an elite blend of athleticism, twitch, bend, and arm length that will translate to the NFL quickly. Howell possess an elite first step and explodes off the LOS into the rep where he’s able to get upfield quickly and utilize his twitch/bend to defeat tackles with ease. Additionally, Howell’s first step and quickness off the LOS translates to his run defense where he’s consistently off the ball quickly and getting into the backfield to collapse rushing lanes. Despite his 6’2 height, Howell has experience lining up at a 7, 9, 5, and sometimes inside at a 3i or 3 tech which allows him to utilize his traits to defeat guards and tackle at a high level. Howell has heavy hands that are powerful at the POA while also showcasing advanced pass rush moves including an elite level swipe, chop, and swim move along with some spin technique as well. Howell has longer arms then usual for a 6’2 pass rusher which allow him to jab the tackle and utilize his ability to dip and win. He showcases the ability to work lateral and vertical at the same time with a phenomenal understanding of the pocket and how he can collapse the passing lanes along with taking away scramble opportunities. The senior stays quick through his rep with elite hip and ankle flexibility that allows him to pair the bend/twitch with quick steps and he’s light on his feet to allow him to re-correct mid rush and collapse. Howell has an understanding for the run game, often utilizing his athletic ability to dip under tackles and tight ends to get into the backfield and collapse a wide rushing lane. Howell also possess an elite motor consistently playing at a high energy level and has the ability to play every down defense if required at the same level. He’s consistently playing through the snap, pursuing rushers from the backside end position, while also running downfield to also make a tackle on pass attempts.
At just 6’2/245 the size is a small concern for Howell, who doesn’t have the prototypical NFL profile. He will need to improve his lower body power in order to become a successful run defender in the NFL against inside runs and double teams where often Howell is flushed out due to his inability to anchor. Howell can be too aggressive at times, leaving open rushing lanes or whiffing a sack as he is almost too athletic for his own good. Additionally, Howell will need to continue to refine specific pass rush moves other than the three he often utilizes, though that should be rather easy given his advanced technique in those departments already. Howell’s pass rush plans in terms of counter moves will need to be developed as well, where he usually resorts to the same move after being defeated which can make it easier for tackles to counter. The pass rusher will also need to do a better job at limiting how often he jabs his arm into the upper chest and face mask of tackles, where it likely will be flagged a little more often in the NFL. Howell’s shown good hips and fluid movement skills in coverage but his overall lack of snaps likely don’t make him an incredibly diverse player in that area.
**Grade:** 1.21 - Early First Round
Howell has lethal athletic traits which will pair with his advanced technique and movement skills that allow him to win at an extreme level. Howell has a 23.8% win rate in his career between Bowling Green and Texas A&M. Howell’s athletic ability makes him a dominant pass rusher and despite his 6’2 frame he has the arm length and wingspan closer to 6’4 which eliminates any issue over his ability to jab at tackles in the NFL. Teams will love the blend of technique and speed that Howell provides along with his willingness to defend the run. Pair that with an extremely high motor and exceptional IQ level, he’s a clear cut top prospect in the class. For the Raiders, they have struggled to find consistent play across from Maxx Crosby and with Malcolm Koonce slated to hit free agency, Howell could slot into the Raiders opposite Crosby and form an elite duo.
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