40 time: 4.69

2nd round

Snapshot: Once a favorite to be the top pick in the draft, Howell saw his stock steadily slide throughout his 2021 junior campaign. A remarkable producer early in college, he won 2019 freshman All-American honors while ranking fourth in the nation in touchdown passes. However, his overall control took a nosedive in 2021 after losing his top weapons in an NFL exodus, and he had to rely on his legs more than ever before. He's still a solid quarterback prospect; he's just not the No. 1 overall option as previously billed.

Strengths: His arm talent pops off the tape and can be stunning at times. Very slick setup and release with a timely motion. Excellent placement and anticipation on throws over the middle of the field. Adequate feel for pressure and ability to go off script. Flashes a high-level ability to adjust his arm slot and loop passes around defenders. His line-drive throws are beautiful.

Weaknesses: Too quick to resort to his legs when pressure arrives. Ball placement and overall control takes a dive when he has to throw off platform. Struggles with indecision and will hold onto the ball too long rather than take available options. Too often operating on offensive rails and compounds mistakes when he goes off them. Flow and feel for the game isn't quite there yet.

Pro comparison: Baker Mayfield, Browns -- Mayfield's decision-making and overall process under pressure were much further along as a prospect than Howell's entering the draft, but they share similar styles and body types. Howell may lack the same level of control and composure, but he has plenty of natural physical traits to fall back on when the going gets tough.