Originally from Dodges Ferry in the Southern Football League, Howe represented Tasmania at the 2009 AFL National Under 18 Championships, but was not selected in the 2009 AFL Draft. Howe also played some games for the Lauderdale Football Club in the 2009 season.[3] The fourth-year electrical apprentice subsequently moved to Tasmanian Football League side Hobart for the 2010 season. A full-forward, Howe made an immediate impact for the Tigers, becoming well known for his bleached blonde hair and high-flying marks.[4] A player with impressive kicking skills and a big leap,[5] Howe was recruited by Melbourne with the 33rd selection in the 2010 AFL Draft.[6] His spectacular marking has drawn comparison with fellow Tasmanian and former Melbourne high-flyer, Russell Robertson.[5]
Howe made his debut against Essendon in Round 11 of the 2011 AFL season.[7] Gathering 19 disposals in an impressive debut, Howe kicked his first AFL goal with a "miraculous snap" in the third quarter, helping Melbourne to a 33-point victory.[8]
Howe is known for his high-flying and crowd pleasing marks that light up the stadium. In 2012 he won the Mark of the Year award, an award for which he has had a league record 35 career nominations.
During the first round of the 2023 AFL season Howe suffered an arm injury in the third quarter after attempting a mark, colliding with Tyson Stengle's back, and landing awkwardly. It was deemed too gruesome to be replayed or zoomed in on, and he was carried off the field in a stretcher and taken to hospital.[10] Following the match it was revealed that he had broken his arm and would have to go surgery, sidelining him for an indefinite period.[11] Howe returned to play in round 15, June 25, with his healed arm in a protective padded sleeve.[12]
^The 2020 season was played with 17 home-and-away matches per team (down from 22) and 16-minute quarters with time on (down from 20-minute quarters with time on) due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
^ ab"Pick 33: Jeremy Howe". Official AFL Website of the Melbourne Football Club. 22 November 2010. Archived from the original on 28 March 2011. Retrieved 21 April 2011.