Schools to Watch After 4-Star WR Theo Howard Decommits from Oregon
California playmaker Theo Howard ended a five-month pledge to Oregon on Sunday night, announcing his decommitment on Twitter.
The 6'0", 170-pound prospect, previously considered the Ducks' top-rated commit, reopens the recruitment process prior to this season's start. The Westlake High School standout will presumably explore multiple collegiate opportunities during his senior campaign.
Howard, a 4-star talent, is listed 16th nationally among wide receivers in composite recruiting rankings. He caught 52 passes for 869 yards and seven touchdowns in 2014, serving as a primary target for Florida State quarterback commit Malik Henry.
.jpg?w=256 "Ohio State Team Doctor")
His athleticism shines in space, where Howard exhibits some of the best lateral agility you'll locate in this class. He gains separation in limited real estate and can make defenders miss if their angles aren't precise.
Expect other Pac-12 contenders to pursue Howard now that he's back on the market. UCLA and USC present in-state possibilities in star-studded offensive attacks.
Oregon, already deep at several skill positions on offense, likely could have created a role for him next fall. There's no reason to think the potential for early playing time wouldn't exist in Los Angeles.
The Trojans were viewed as a favorite for Howard's commitment earlier this year before his Oregon announcement. USC's current situation at receiver is certainly different.
Head coach Steve Sarkisian has claimed pledges from pass targets Trevon Sidney, Josh Imatorbhebhe, Velus Jones Jr. and Michael Pittman since then. It's a group set to join several promising quarterbacks on campus in coming years.
The Trojans offered Howard last fall, so he clearly sits rather high on USC's receiver board. Anticipate immediate mutual interest between the two parties moving forward, and expect analysts to deem USC a substantial favorite in 247Sports' Crystal Ball.
Rival UCLA should also emerge as a viable landing spot for the in-state talent. Bruins head coach Jim Mora lost Pittman's pledge to USC earlier this summer but still holds a pair of 4-star commitments at the position with Dymond Lee and Darian Owens.
UCLA landed the top-ranked 2015 quarterback in Josh Rosen and continues to build a dynamic collection of running backs. Howard could become a crucial perimeter weapon in a well-balanced Bruins attack that will grow together during the next two to three years.
Howard is no longer affiliated with reigning conference champion Oregon, but expect him to end up in Pac-12 action. This recruitment has the makings of another cross-city battle between USC and UCLA.
.jpg?w=480 "Ohio State Team Doctor")
