Oregon State lands 4-Star DL Kelze Howard

Oregon State came in with an offer to Kelze Howard on March 31 and three months later, the four-star out of Las Vegas (Nev.) Spring Valley has committed to the Beavers.

At one time Michigan was the favorite for the No. 214 prospect in the On3 Consensus. He was high on Oregon too. Arizona, USC, and Utah were also up there for Howard.

But after his first visit to Beaverton, his mind was made up.

“I made my decision on my official visit to Oregon State,” Howard told On3. “I hadn’t been there before and I didn’t really know what to expect, but it was great up there.

“The team, the coaches, the atmosphere – it all fit me. I knew during that visit that Oregon State was the best fit for me.”

Being from Las Vegas, Howard is used to the sun and the heat. He saw a different environment at Oregon State and fell in love.

“I was really surprised at how much I liked it. Everything just seemed right. I loved the rain, the clouds, the atmosphere, and just how I felt there. I am used to it being hot all of the time, so I loved the rain and the weather. It is perfect football weather there.

“Then the people around the school are dope. They just don’t see me as a football player, there see me as a person. It was different up there in a good way and I really like the fit for me.”

Out of the 17 offers Howard had, Oregon State was No. 16 to pull the trigger. They got into the race a little later than some, but their consistency paid off. They sent coaches to Howard’s spring practice, then to his spring game, and he feels good about what he is getting into with Jonathan Smith’s staff.

“Coach Legi (Suaiunoa) and T.B. (Trent Bray) have been recruiting me hard. They see me as an end for them in their defense, but I can play all over the defensive line. The coaches are great guys, they have a plan for me, and I am excited.

“Oregon State is on the rise, it is a great program, and they have love for me there. It is the place for me to be.”