A year ago, the Washington Commanders were eager to see what Sam Howell could do in his second season in the NFL. The former fifth-round pick started all 17 games for the Commanders, and the offense did score slightly more points than the year before, but he also led the NFL with 21 interceptions and 65 sacks taken.
While Howell did get a fair shot at displaying his talents, he also put the Commanders in a very strong position to draft his replacement with the second overall pick. Rumors point to Drake Maye or Jayden Daniels being drafted by the Commanders, but where does that put Howell?
Naturally, if the Commanders spend that much draft capital on a new QB, Howell’s days as being looked at as the future are done in Washington. Howell could very well continue his development in Washington, helping the new rookie catch up to speed, yet, it’s also possible another team makes the Commanders an offer they can’t refuse, and there are already plenty of rumors suggesting a trade is possible.
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Multiple NFL execs would trade a 4th-round pick for Sam Howell
There’s been no indication that the Washington Commanders are eager to trade their 23-year-old quarterback. After all, he’s under contract through 2025, providing Washington with a very affordable ($1M cap hit in 2024), yet capable backup QB.
However, we shouldn’t rule out Howell being traded either. It’s not like new GM Adam Peters was around when Howell was drafted. The same goes for head coach Dan Quinn and offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury.
Again, if teams make an enticing offer, why shouldn’t the Commanders consider it? Especially if they can get an even bigger return on their initial investment into Howell, which appears to be the case.
According to The Athletic’s Ben Standig, there are at least two NFL front office executives who have privately communicated that they’d trade at least a fourth-round pick for the Commanders QB.
With so many teams seeking either a replacement, upgrade or just more depth at QB, Howell could become one of the more attractive options available this offseason. But that’s only if the Commanders are willing to play ball.