The Minnesota Vikings have found a veteran backup for rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy.
On Saturday, the Vikings acquired Sam Howell from the Seattle Seahawks in a draft-pick swap. Sending the No. 142 overall pick (used by Seattle to select defensive lineman Rylie Mills) in exchange for pick No. 172.
Minnesota had been searching for a seasoned presence behind McCarthy after losing Sam Darnold (Seattle) and Daniel Jones (Indianapolis Colts) in free agency. Howell now joins a quarterback room that includes: McCarthy, Brett Rypien and undrafted University of Minnesota product Max Brosmer, according to NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero.
Howell brings valuable starting experience to Minnesota. Having opened 18 career games, including 17 starts with the Washington Commanders in 2023. However, his brief stint in Seattle last season was rocky: he completed just five of 14 passes for 24 yards and an interception during a Week 15 loss to Green Bay.
Known for being turnover-prone, Howell led the NFL with 21 interceptions last year and has thrown 23 picks in 20 career games. Despite his struggles, he provides the Vikings with needed depth without posing a threat to McCarthy’s path to becoming the full-time starter.
The 24-year-old became expendable in Seattle after the team reworked its quarterback room by signing Darnold, trading away Geno Smith, and bringing back Drew Lock. With the Seahawks also selecting Jalen Milroe in the third round of the draft, Howell’s departure was inevitable.
