Sam Howell Dealt to Vikings During Draft

Sam Howell has been a name involved in trade discussions for quite a while. After being traded from the Commanders following his rookie season, Howell has remained a backup in the NFL, with a year of starting experience under his belt. The Vikings felt the need to address their backup quarterback spot by trading for Howell during the draft, additionally swapping picks 142 and 172.

Howell joins J.J. McCarthy and Brett Rypien as the quarterbacks competing for depth and experience in Minnesota. Although Howell entered the league as a fifth-round selection, he brings tangible starting experience to the table, having started 18 games in his NFL career—including 17 contests with the Washington Commanders during the 2023 season. However, his brief stint with Seattle last year was less encouraging; in a Week 15 loss to the Green Bay Packers, Howell completed just five of 14 passes for 24 yards and threw one interception during his lone extended appearance.

Turnover issues remain a concern for Howell—he led the NFL in interceptions in 2023 with 21 and has totaled 23 picks across just 20 career games. Despite this, his experience is valuable for the Vikings’ quarterback room and does not pose a threat to McCarthy’s role as the team's starting quarterback for the 2025 season.

At just 24 years old, Howell became expendable in Seattle following the team’s decision to sign Sam Darnold after trading away Geno Smith. The Seahawks further solidified their depth by bringing in Drew Lock as the veteran backup. Seahawks general manager John Schneider acknowledged that Howell’s name was actively discussed in trade talks, especially after selecting quarterback Jalen Milroe in the third round—signaling that Howell’s departure was likely during draft weekend.

This move gives Minnesota a pragmatic option behind McCarthy, blending potential with experience as the team looks to build a competitive roster moving forward.