Nevada
Will compete for playing time in the defensive backfield and on special teams.

2007: Redshirted his first year at Nevada.

High School
A graduate of Corona Del Sol High School in Tempe, Ariz. ... Was a three-year letterman in football and two-year letterman in track and field ... Was an all-region selection at quarterback as a senior ... Was part of state-qualifying relays teams in track.

Personal
Born Ryan James Howard on May 9, 1989 in Arlington Heights, Ill. ... Son of Joan and Mike Howard ... Has a younger sister, Megan ... Father was a starting quarterback at Wisconsin and mother was a gymnast at Wisconsin ... Has not declared a major.