Scouting Report: Weaknesses

• Lacks the anchor strength to consistently hold the point of attack against power-gap schemes and double teams.
• Closing speed in the backfield sometimes allows quarterbacks to escape what should be certain sacks.
• Limited experience in coverage situations may create growing pains in complex zone packages at the next level.
• Stack-and-shed technique needs refinement when offensive tackles get hands on him in run defense.
• Competition level questions remain after spending formative years in the MAC before one season in the SEC.

Scouting Report: Summary

The speed-to-power conversion that made Howell dangerous in college becomes both his greatest asset and biggest question mark at the next level. His first step and natural bend around the arc will create immediate pressure in obvious passing situations, but the same frame that allows him to threaten the edge may struggle when offensive tackles get their hands on him and drive him up the field. NFL offensive lines will test his anchor strength in ways SEC competition only hinted at, particularly when he's asked to set the edge against power-gap schemes.

Pass-rush specialists who excel in sub packages but struggle as every-down players often find themselves typecast in the NFL, and Howell's development trajectory suggests he could fall into either category depending on how quickly he adds functional strength without losing his explosiveness. His coverage ability creates intriguing possibilities for defensive coordinators looking to disguise their intentions, though the learning curve from college to professional route concepts could expose him early in his career. The motor and instincts that served him well in college should translate, but so will the missed tackles and inconsistent point-of-attack play that occasionally showed up on tape.

Developmental prospects with Howell's athletic profile often outperform their draft position when they land in the right system, but they can just as easily become afterthoughts when misused or rushed into roles they're not ready for. His journey from MAC to SEC proves he can handle increased competition, yet questions remain about whether his production was a product of his ability or the result of drawing less attention while playing alongside higher-profile teammates. The ceiling for a player with his speed and bend is undeniably high, but the floor includes the possibility of remaining a situational pass rusher who struggles to impact games when opposing offenses commit to running directly at him.