The Ohio State Buckeyes have bolstered their defensive roster with the addition of Duquesne linebacker transfer Ty Howard. The announcement marks another significant pickup for head coach Ryan Day and the Buckeyes, who continue to prioritize depth and versatility on the defensive side of the ball. Howard’s decision to transfer to Columbus comes after a standout career at Duquesne, where he established himself as one of the top linebackers in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).
During his time at Duquesne, Howard developed into a dominant force at linebacker, showcasing his ability to make plays all over the field. Standing 6-foot-1 and weighing 235 pounds, Howard combines size, speed, and instinct, making him a highly sought-after player in the transfer portal.
In his most recent season, Howard recorded 88 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks, earning him All-Conference honors in the Northeast Conference (NEC). His ability to read offenses, shed blockers, and make tackles in open space made him a defensive cornerstone for Duquesne. Howard also proved to be an effective leader on and off the field, a quality that undoubtedly caught the attention of the Ohio State coaching staff.
The Buckeyes are coming off a strong season that saw their defense improve significantly under coordinator Jim Knowles. However, linebacker depth has been a concern, particularly with the departure of key players to the NFL and the uncertainty surrounding the injury status of some returning athletes.
Howard’s arrival addresses a critical need for Ohio State. His versatility allows him to play multiple linebacker positions, including middle and weak-side roles. His experience and football IQ will also provide immediate value to a defense that will face high-powered offenses in the Big Ten and beyond.
Ohio State has made it clear that it values players with proven production and leadership qualities, and Howard checks both boxes. His FCS experience may not carry the same spotlight as Power Five football, but his performance at Duquesne proves he has the skill set to compete at the highest level.
In announcing his commitment, Howard expressed excitement about the opportunity to play for one of the most storied programs in college football.
“Ohio State felt like the right place for me,” Howard said. “The coaching staff believes in my abilities, and I know I can contribute to their defensive success. It’s a dream come true to join a program with such a rich history and a passionate fan base.”
Howard also highlighted the importance of player development at Ohio State. With the Buckeyes’ track record of producing NFL-ready talent, he sees this move as a chance to elevate his game and prepare for the next level.
Howard’s arrival adds depth, experience, and leadership to Ohio State’s linebacker corps. Known for his ability to diagnose plays quickly, Howard excels in stopping the run and dropping into coverage against tight ends and running backs. His athleticism allows him to move sideline to sideline, making him a reliable presence in the middle of the defense.
Additionally, Howard’s leadership will be invaluable in a room filled with younger players. As someone who has already captained a defense, he brings a veteran presence that can help guide Ohio State’s less experienced linebackers.
With Howard in the fold, Ohio State’s linebacker unit is shaping up to be one of the strongest in the Big Ten. He will join a talented group that includes returning starters Tommy Eichenberg and Steele Chambers. The competition for snaps will be fierce, but Howard’s skill set and experience give him a legitimate chance to make an immediate impact.
For Ohio State, this move underscores their commitment to building a championship-caliber roster. The Buckeyes have consistently been active in the transfer portal, using it to fill key positions and add depth. Howard’s addition is another example of how the program is leveraging the portal to stay competitive on the national stage.
Ty Howard’s commitment to Ohio State is a win-win for both the player and the program. The Buckeyes gain a proven playmaker who can contribute immediately, while Howard gets the opportunity to compete at the highest level and develop under one of the best coaching staffs in college football.
As Ohio State continues to gear up for another run at a Big Ten title and a College Football Playoff berth, the addition of Howard could be a pivotal piece of the puzzle. With his talent and leadership, Howard has the potential to become a key figure in the Buckeyes’ defense for the 2024 season.