In a development that caught fans, media, and even his own coaching staff by complete surprise, Kansas State Wildcats rising star offensive lineman Ryan Howard delivered a major announcement Tuesday that left head coach Chris Klieman “speechless” and sent shockwaves through the college football community.
Howard, a junior standout who has rapidly emerged as one of the top offensive line prospects in the Big 12, called an impromptu press conference following team workouts. Flanked by teammates and visibly emotional, the 6’5″, 310-pound lineman stepped up to the microphone and delivered a message no one was expecting.
“After long conversations with my family, coaches, and mentors, I’ve made one of the toughest decisions of my life,” Howard began. “Effective immediately, I’m declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft.”
Gasps rippled through the room.
Howard, who still had eligibility remaining and was projected as a key leader for the Wildcats’ 2025 campaign, has decided to forgo his senior season in favor of pursuing his professional football dreams — a move that sent a wave of disbelief through Wildcat Nation.
“It’s never easy to walk away,” Howard continued. “But I believe the time is right. I’ve given everything I have to this program, and Kansas State has given me even more. I’ll always be a Wildcat — but it’s time to take the next step.”
The announcement marks a significant moment for both Howard and the K-State football program. Widely regarded as a potential first-round pick, Howard has been a dominant force in the trenches, helping lead a revitalized offensive unit that powered the Wildcats to back-to-back bowl appearances. His blend of size, strength, and football IQ has drawn comparisons to former NFL Pro Bowlers — and scouts have taken notice.
But despite the promising future ahead of him, Howard’s decision to leave early was not something anyone — not even his coach — expected.
“Honestly, I’m shocked,” said head coach Chris Klieman, speaking shortly after the announcement. “Ryan is the kind of player and person every coach dreams of. He’s tough, smart, and respected by everyone in this locker room. While I wish we had him for one more season, I’m incredibly proud of him and support his decision 100%.”
Teammates also expressed admiration for Howard’s leadership and legacy. Senior quarterback Mason Fortner called him “the anchor of our offense,” and added, “He made us all better — and we’ll carry that forward.”
Howard’s departure leaves a significant hole in the Wildcats’ offensive line, a unit that had become one of the most consistent in the conference. With several younger players waiting in the wings, including redshirt sophomore Caleb Hines and true freshman Marcus Dillon, the focus will now shift to how the Wildcats fill that void ahead of the 2025 season.
Still, Howard’s story is one of perseverance and development. A three-star recruit out of Olathe, Kansas, he arrived in Manhattan under the radar but quickly earned a starting role thanks to his relentless work ethic and leadership qualities. Over three seasons, he started 33 games, earned All-Big 12 honors, and became a fixture of K-State’s identity — tough, disciplined, and unselfish.
“This place changed my life,” Howard said, fighting back emotion. “From the fans to my teammates, to Coach Klieman and this amazing staff — thank you for believing in me when few others did. I’ll carry that with me to the next level.”
Howard concluded his announcement by assuring fans he will remain closely connected to the program and intends to finish his degree this offseason before beginning draft preparations.
“This isn’t goodbye — it’s just the beginning of a new chapter,” he said. “I’ll be back in the stands next fall, cheering on my brothers.”
As the room erupted in applause, one thing was clear: Ryan Howard may be leaving the field in Manhattan, but his legacy as a Wildcat is far from finished.
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