2024 Downington (PA) West offense lineman Ryan Howard has no shortage of college options.
At 6 foot 7, 315 pounds, Howard possesses the size and skill that high-major programs covet. He was named to the Pennsylvania Class 6A All-State Team, leading Downington to a 9-2 record, and holds offers from high-majors West Virginia, Kansas State and Maryland.
But Howard is far from just an athlete. With a 4.0 GPA, Ivy League schools Yale and UPenn have also extended offers.
Blessed to receive an offer from Syracuse University! @DL_theHUNT pic.twitter.com/xRZYS0aT8T
— Ryan Howard (@ryan_Howard_08) January 15, 2023
Syracuse was the latest school to offer this past weekend, with defensive line coach Chris Achuff as the Orange’s lead recruiter.
“It felt great getting the offer,” Howard said in an interview with The Juice Online. “It’s an amazing opportunity at a great school and program.”
Howard is already familiar with Syracuse. He was part of a large contingent of recruits that were on campus on Oct. 15 to see the Orange defeat then-No. 15 NC State 24-9 to open the season 6-0.
Howard had an opportunity to tour SU’s facilities, meet players and coaches, and also take in the JMA Wireless Dome atmosphere.
“I really like the school,” Howard said. “In October, I saw how good the fan base, environment and team really is.”
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It’s still early in Howard’s recruitment, and he’s taking time to assess the offers he has.
“It’s hard to put one in front of the others since they have all been recruiting me pretty evenly,” Howard said. “I don’t have any heavy favorites yet, but I plan on making a few visits to form a better opinion.”
That opinion will be informed by what he’s looking for at the next level.
“I’m looking for a good team with good culture, as well as a good school that has many different opportunities for me educationally,” Howard said. “Finally I look for a team with great fans and a good game day environment.”
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