The Washington Commanders are moving forward in an exciting direction with quarterback Jayden Daniels leading the charge. For the team's starting signal-caller before his arrival, things aren't going nearly as well.
Sam Howell was shipped to the Seattle Seahawks shortly before the 2024 NFL Draft. Adam Peters and others in positions of power had made up their mind about the No. 2 pick. They extracted maximum value for a young player no longer part of their plans.
Now, Howell could be on the move again. Jeremy Fowler from ESPN revealed that the Seahawks are looking to trade the former North Carolina standout. They've also received interest from willing suitors, which could mean a deal comes to fruition sooner rather than later.
This is a crossroads situation for Howell, who's entering the final year of his rookie deal. Landing in the right spot is crucial, although that will be backing up someone rather than starting outright himself.
That seems like a long way off despite his flashes under center with the Commanders. What comes next is out of Howell's hands, but keep an eye on these three teams who could save the signal-caller from NFL purgatory.
Teams that could save former Commanders QB Sam Howell in 2025
Minnesota Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings are moving forward with J.J. McCarthy under center. His rookie campaign ended before it began through injury, but the NFC North club remains confident he can become a franchise-altering presence with an exceptional supporting cast at his disposal.
Speculation linking the Vikings with Aaron Rodgers came to nothing. Minnesota doesn't have a viable backup option right now. There isn't much draft capital to spend, but Howell would provide a younger yet experienced option if McCarthy is forced to miss time.
Learning from ex-Washington coach Kevin O'Connell makes this a sensational landing spot for Howell.
New Orleans Saints
There is newfound concern around New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr. The veteran is reportedly dealing with a serious shoulder injury that could see him miss some, if not all, of the 2025 campaign. They must pivot accordingly with some threadbare options around him on the depth chart.
Howell could be had for relatively cheap. His gunslinger mentality could provide a spark that New Orleans' offense lacked last season. This might also provide a slight window to gain a starting job when all hope seems lost.
There's a chance the Saints are looking at one of the top college quarterbacks in the draft after Carr's concerning outlook. Howell represents a decent fall-back option all things considered.
New England Patriots
Drake Maye is the future. The New England Patriots saw enough in the quarterback last season to deem him their long-awaited heir to Tom Brady. But with only Joshua Dobbs behind him on the depth chart, acquiring Sam Howell might be something to consider.
Howell wouldn't be challenging for Maye's spot in this scenario. He'd be nothing more than a dependable backup with previous starting experience. That's better than being No. 3 behind Sam Darnold and Drew Lock.
Wherever Howell ends up, it has to go well. Otherwise, he'll be facing an increasingly uncertain future when he becomes a free agent in 2026.