He was picked up by Richmond with the 97th selection of the 1992 AFL Draft, where he rejoined with his previous coach John Northey.
In just his second game for his new club, against the Brisbane Bears, Howat had 25 disposals and earned three Brownlow Medal votes for his efforts.
Unlike at Melbourne, Howat was able to establish a regular place in the team and missed just three games in his debut season.
He added another 17 games in 1994 and although he played just four times the following year, he appeared in Richmond's preliminary final loss.
He played on some of the games great full forwards of all time including Tony Lockett, Jason Dunstall, Warwick Capper and Gary Ablett Senior.