Notre Dame football: What is Plan B if Riley Leonard isn’t in the cards?

Will Howard could be the type of veteran Notre Dame Football seeks.

USC head coach Lincoln Riley is currently courting Will Howard. However, if he doesn’t head to Hollywood, Howard would be a great fit in South Bend. Howard would be a graduate transfer and a one-and-done player. The Pennsylvania native would be significantly closer to home at Notre Dame than at USC.

Howard gives Jack Coan vibes. Coan was a solid, veteran quarterback when he transferred to Notre Dame from Wisconsin. He led the Irish to an 11-1 record and a Fiesta Bowl appearance. Would Howard get the Irish over the top, get them in the playoffs, and win a game or two?

Maybe. Howard is battle-tested. He led the Wildcats to a Big 12 Championship, defeating TCU — who made the College Football Playoff — in the title game in 2022. Howard had a career-high in completions (219), yards (2643), and touchdowns (24). Why leave Manhattan? Howard could declare for the NFL draft but is not a top prospect.

Chris Klieman and the offensive staff are likely ready to begin the Avery Johnson era at Kansas State. The writing is on the wall for Howard at Kansas State. Unless he goes to USC, Notre Dame could be possible if Leonard doesn’t go to A&M.