Ole Miss transfer QB Walker Howard commits to Louisiana

Ole Miss transfer quarterback Walker Howard is heading back to his home state, committing to play for Louisiana, which was confirmed by his father. This is Howard’s second time going through the NCAA transfer portal process, beginning his career with LSU. But he is now a Ragin Cajun under head coach Michael Desormeaux.

Howard did not have too much playing time during his time with Ole Miss. Four appearances saw just six pass attempts, spending a lot of time behind Jaxson Dart. However, with Dart moving on after the 2024 season, the future for Lane Kiffin appears to be Austin Simmons. He served as the Rebels’ back up to Dart and even provided some excitement in November against Georgia.

“I think it was very close,” Kiffin said on the backup QB battle in preseason. “Both guys had a really good camp. Did really well. It was a hard decision. Just felt that Austin played a little better right at the end, the last couple competitive situations, but it was a very hard decision. We’re very confident as you saw with both guys going in there and running our offense.”

Entering the portal gave Howard a fresh start and a place he hopes to start from Day One. Three seasons in college have resulted in just 10 career pass attempts for 63 yards, no touchdowns, and no interceptions. At some point, getting on the field has to be a top priority.

Howard played high school football at Lafayette (LA) St. Thomas More, where he was a four-star prospect. He was the No. 45 overall recruit in the 2022 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

Louisiana started Chandler Fields, a redshirt senior, this past season but he is now of eligibility. A quarterback was going to be needed this offseason. Howard not only brings a ton of potential to the table but gives the Ragin’ Cajuns somebody who has been inside an SEC program for three seasons.