The Minnesota Vikings have acquired quarterback Sam Howell through a trade with the Seattle Seahawks, bolstering their roster ahead of the 2025 season. In exchange for pick No. 142, the Vikings sent a conditional second-round pick to the Seahawks.
Howell, who spent two seasons with the Washington Commanders and was a backup to Dwayne Haskins, has seen limited playing time in his three-year NFL career. However, he has shown promise with 4,139 yards passing, 22 touchdowns, and 23 interceptions. The 24-year-old quarterback joins Minnesota’s quarterback room led by rookie J.J. McCarthy and veteran Brett Rypien.
The Vikings’ decision to acquire Howell comes after months of speculation surrounding Aaron Rodgers, who had “conversations” with the team’s coaching staff over the offseason. With Rodgers now off the table due to this trade, it appears the Vikings have moved on from pursuing a high-profile quarterback.
Howell’s relatively low contract of $1.1 million for 2025 also makes him an attractive addition to the team. The 24-year-old quarterback offers upside and potential development, which aligns with the team’s coaching staff’s goals. With McCarthy expected to be the starter and Rypien providing depth, Howell’s role will likely be that of a backup or developmental player.
The trade ends any discussion about other quarterbacks joining the Vikings, including former Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins, who had expressed interest in returning to the team. With the move, the Vikings’ focus shifts to developing their young quarterback room and preparing for the 2025 season.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6312772/2025/04/26/sam-howell-vikings-seahawks-draft-trade