Which teams could potentially take a look at quarterback Sam Howell if the Washington Commanders deem him surplus to requirements in 2024?
After a rollercoaster first season as the Washington Commanders' starting quarterback, Sam Howell faces an uncertain future. There were flashes of what he could become with a better-supporting cast. However, the steep regression in difficult circumstances over the second half of 2023 is unlikely to go unnoticed by the new regime.
The Commanders are embarking on an exciting era of change. Adam Peters is the general manager. Ben Johnson might be the head coach if recent momentum is any indication. They also have the No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft to find a long-term franchise quarterback and a rookie contract to build around.
In this scenario, the Commanders might feel like a veteran is needed to help nurture their chosen draft pick. This would relegate Howell to No. 3 on the depth chart, so a situation could emerge where Washington starts taking calls from teams looking to bolster their options under center.
With this in mind, here are three potential landing spots for Howell if the Commanders decide to go in a different direction.
Commanders could trade Sam Howell to the Falcons
It seems as if Desmond Ridder's time as the Atlanta Falcons starting quarterback is over. Their failure to win the NFC South and the introduction of Raheem Morris as head coach indicate changes are on the way. They might have a bigger fish in mind, but Sam Howell would be walking into a tremendous situation if this hypothetical scenario became reality.
The Falcons have an abundance of weapons at the skill positions. They have a dynamic running-back tandem. Their offensive line can hold its own. All they are seemingly missing is a signal-caller who can steer them in the right direction.
Howell would also reunite with a familiar face in Atlanta. Former Washington Commanders quarterback Taylor Henicke is under contract next season, which would allow for a smooth transition to a different environment.
Commanders could trade Sam Howell to the Vikings
Sam Howell has shown real promise when it comes to getting the football downfield. His best games in 2023 came when the Washington Commanders were forced to chase big deficits. While some growth is needed from a decision-making standpoint, there could be some merit in teams examining his capabilities and parting ways with a mid-to-low-level draft pick.
A situation could also emerge where the Commanders keep Howell around. He's on a cheap contract. He's only entering his third season. If their chosen signal-caller from the college ranks needs a little extra time to pick things up, the former North Carolina gunslinger would be a nice stop-gap option.
If the Commanders decide to cash on Howell with his future hanging in the balance, perhaps a team like the Minnesota Vikings could be a potential destination. Former Washington quarterback Kirk Cousins is out of contract and recovering from a torn Achilles. There have been murmurings of another deal, but nothing could be said with any guarantee.
Nick Mullens, Joshua Dobbs, and Jaren Hall don't look like the answer, even as backup options. Acquiring Howell would give the Vikings a high-upside quarterback with the potential to start. He'd also be an immediate upgrade to their No. 2 spot if Cousins gets an extension.
This is another decent landing spot for Howell. He'd have All-Pro wide receiver Justin Jefferson and Pro Bowl tight end T.J. Hockenson to call upon in the passing game. Jordan Addison is another promising wideout set for a prolific career based on his rookie campaign. But this is largely dependent on Cousins' fate with the franchise.
Commanders could trade Sam Howell to the 49ers
This is the sort of move that the San Francisco 49ers became renowned for. They take players a little down on their luck and completely galvanize their careers. Kyle Shanahan is also looking for a stable backup to Brock Purdy next season.
Sam Darnold is the current understudy in San Francisco. He signed a one-year deal in 2023 free agency after horrific spells with the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers. Considering his indifferent production when filling in for Purdy this season, it would be a shock if his time with the Niners wasn't short-lived.
Someone like Sam Howell would be an intriguing option for Shanahan. He's arguably got more arm talent than Purdy. He's a willing learner. The coach's scheme is designed to make things easier on quarterbacks - something the former fifth-round selection didn't have the benefit of under Eric Bieniemy during his first - and perhaps only - season as the Washington Commanders starting option under center.
Negotiations could go smoothly between the two franchises. They've struck a deal recently that sent defensive end Chase Young to San Francisco. Of course, new general manager Adam Peters came from the Niners, so it would be easy to find a middle ground in this scenario.
Howell could easily stick around with the Commanders next season. But if those in power draft a rookie and also secure a veteran backup presence to mentor their chosen signal-caller, all bets are off.