On Thursday, the Seattle Seahawks pulled off a surprise trade that likely indicated new head coach Mike Macdonald has found his quarterback replacement for Geno Smith.
After 14 seasons with Pete Carroll leading the team, the Seahawks are in the early stages of a new era for the franchise. Change is sure to come under new head coach Mike Macdonald, and it seems that the QB spot could be one area where a notable switch is made.
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In recent weeks, the former Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator has made comments that make it seem like Geno Smith’s job as the starting quarterback in 2024 is far from safe. Well, on Thursday that narrative was only intensified when the franchise pulled off a surprise trade for a young QB with solid upside from the NFC East.
ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter was one of the first to report that the Washington Commanders are sending 2023 starting QB Sam Howell to the Seahawks in a pick swap.
Sam Howell trade
- Seahawks get: Howell, fourth and sixth-round pick in 2024
- Commanders get: Third and a fifth-round pick in 2024
Is Sam Howell a serious threat to take Geno Smith’s spot as Seattle Seahawks starting spot?
While he was far from perfect over the first nine weeks of the 2023-24 NFL season, there was hope that the Commanders may have found a legitimate steal in 2022 fifth-round pick Sam Howell. After showing signs of his potential late in his rookie season he impressed last year by keeping them in games against the Eagles and throwing around 300 yards or more five times, and 14 touchdowns.
- Sam Howell contract: 4 years, $4 million
Unfortunately, he nosed dive in the second half as more tape on him got to opposing defenses and he was eventually benched late in the season. Nevertheless, he is still a player who has shown potential after he threw for 3,946 yards and 21 touchdowns in 17 starts last season. If Howell can cut down on his turnovers, he can be a dangerous player at his position.
- Sam Howell stats (2023): 3,946 yards, 21 TDs, 21 INTs, 63.4 completion %, 78.9 passer rating
What also makes Howell an interesting addition is that he is signed for two more seasons and is barely making over $2 million for years combined.
