“Building”, “culture”, and “a new era”, are just a few of the terms that have been thrown around the University of South Florida‘s football program as of late. One of the positions under concern of rebuilding efficiently was the linebackers. And, one of the first few additions to the USF roster came in linebacker Grayson Howard. Having the abilities to benefit this program in more ways than one, Howard brings character, leadership, and experience to Tampa. His addition could be massive for the Bulls going forward.
USF Football: Grayson Howard
Who is Grayson “Pup” Howard?
Nicknamed “Pup” in eighth grade, it’s stuck around for years. And funny enough, Howard may be starting to solidify himself as a ‘Big Dog’ at USF. After spending three seasons in the SEC, linebacker Grayson Howard joined USF in January 2026.
From Jacksonville, Florida, Howard was a four-star recruit out of Andrew Jackson High School. Ahead of this upcoming season, Howard has made an appearance in 23 collegiate games, starting nine of them. His nine career starts all came during his 2024 season at the University of Florida. He’s displayed himself as a versatile linebacker, bringing playing experience from both South Carolina and Florida to USF.
Fun fact: In high school Grayson was invited to play in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, one of the top high school all-star games in the country.
Player History
Grayson’s collegiate career began at the University of South Carolina in 2023. Playing in 11 games as a true freshman, he recorded 19 tackles, one tackle for loss, and one forced fumble. His collegiate debut was against Furman University, where he tallied four tackles in the contest.
Ahead of the 2024 season, Howard entered the transfer portal and landed at Florida.
His first year as a Gator would also become his breakout season. Starting the first nine games of the year, Howard would finish the season with a career-high 37 tackles, 17 being solo, 1.0 sack, 2.0 tackles for loss, two fumble recoveries, one forced fumble, two quarterback hurries and one pass breakup. His season-high of seven tackles came against Mississippi State while his first career sack was against UCF. Overall, he earned an 84.2 Pro Football Focus run-defense grade, ranking among the top run defenders in the FBS. A standout performance for the linebacker, he would also be named to the SEC Fall Academic Honor Roll.
The 2025 season however, would bring a twist. Playing in three games, including versus USF in Week 2, he totaled four tackles before his season would be cut short due to an ankle injury. That injury would require surgery and an adequate amount of time to heal. Grayson then entered the portal once again, this time landing in Tampa, becoming a Bull. A fresh start just a couple of hours down I-75 was now on the horizon.
Impact for 2026
Howard is expected to be competing for a starting role entering the 2026 season. He brings proven experience playing in the SEC, paired with veteran leadership to a linebacker room with several new faces. And, he continues to emerge as a leader not only on the defensive front, but for the entire roster. Howard emulates experience, stable communication, and stability in the middle of running plays. He has shown that he can produce against Power Four competition with a proven track record as a physical run defender. He’s also proven to be effective as a pash rusher with the ability to create turnovers. Howard’s ability to maneuver shines – he doesn’t allow anything to get in his way. It’s possible that Howard may not only become a standout player in the American this season, but could reach new heights and post career highs.
However, staying healthy is a big concern – and rightfully so. Yet, Grayson feels that he is ready to move past his injuries and showcase his potential. Being a hard worker, Howard has not taken this opportunity lightly. He believes his best days are in the near future here with USF.
As the Bulls continue to build further and under a new coaching staff, Grayson Howard at the linebacker position is projected to not only be a key piece, but an important leader for South Florida football.
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Mackenzie Neglia
Currently a student at the University of South Florida, raised in a New York football family. Always looking for a new book, coffee shop, and travel spot.