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On Saturday, Mississippi State University welcomed over 50 potential recruits to its campus, including several top prospects from the state. Among them was Gavin Howard, a standout athlete from Holmes County High School. The visit provided Howard with an opportunity to explore the facilities and meet key members of the coaching staff. He expressed admiration for the university's athletic infrastructure and enjoyed attending a basketball game during his stay. The Bulldogs' coaches have maintained a strong relationship with Howard since head coach Jeff Lebby's arrival. Howard, who is being recruited as a wide receiver, has developed close bonds with receivers coach Chad Bumphis and analyst Benton Duby. This visit further strengthened these connections, as Howard spent time with Lebby and his team. With a history of successful players from his high school joining the Bulldogs, Howard feels confident about the opportunities that await him at Mississippi State.

Howard's visit to Starkville allowed him to gain valuable insights into what life could be like as a student-athlete at Mississippi State. He toured the impressive athletic facilities, including the weight room and recovery center, which left a positive impression. "The training staff and strength coaches were very welcoming," Howard remarked. "We would spend a lot of time with them, so it’s great to see how supportive they are." Additionally, he attended a basketball game, noting the vibrant atmosphere despite the team's tough day on the court. The experience reinforced his interest in the university's overall environment and culture.

The connection between Howard and Mississippi State extends beyond this recent visit. Since Coach Lebby took over, the Bulldogs have consistently engaged with Howard, fostering a strong rapport. His role as an athlete being considered for wide receiver positions aligns well with the program's needs. Howard has built meaningful relationships with both Coach Bumphis and Analyst Duby, which deepened during his time on campus. "I’ve known them for a while, but our bond grew even stronger on Saturday," Howard shared. "Coach Lebby emphasized his vision for using me in various roles on the field, which excites me."

Howard is part of a lineage of talented athletes from Holmes County who have successfully transitioned to SEC football at Mississippi State. Former Jaguars players now on the roster speak highly of their experiences, influencing Howard's perspective. "They’ve praised the development they received both as players and individuals," Howard noted. "My offensive coordinator, Malik Dear, also played there under Dan Mullen and had a wonderful time." Howard brings extensive experience to the table, having accumulated 102 career receptions for 1,890 yards and 18 touchdowns, along with significant contributions on special teams. His senior year saw him record 70 catches for 841 yards and seven touchdowns, leading his team to an 8-4 record.

Looking ahead, Howard plans to officially visit Mississippi State on June 20 and may explore other programs as well. While the Bulldogs have made a strong impression, he remains open to other opportunities. Recent offers from UNLV and Oregon State have added to his list of choices. As recruiting intensifies, Howard aims to make informed decisions that will best support his future aspirations. Despite the challenges ahead, he remains optimistic about the upcoming season and the possibility of contributing to a disciplined and hard-working team at Holmes County High School.