Vikings Acquire Quarterback rom Seahawks in Fifth-Round Pick Swap
The Minnesota Vikings made a move to strengthen their quarterback depth during the NFL Draft, acquiring Sam Howell from the Seattle Seahawks. The trade involved a swap of fifth-round picks, with the Vikings sending the 142nd overall selection to Seattle in exchange for the 172nd pick and Howell.
At just 24 years old, Howell brings valuable starting experience to Minnesota’s quarterback room. He started all 17 games for the Washington Commanders in 2023, throwing for an impressive 3,946 yards. However, that season also highlighted some of Howell’s struggles, as he led the league in interceptions (21) and sacks taken (65) while guiding a struggling 4-13 Commanders team. Despite those challenges, the Vikings see Howell’s upside, particularly under head coach Kevin O’Connell, who has a reputation for working well with quarterbacks.
O’Connell’s system has proven to be quarterback-friendly, most recently helping Sam Darnold revitalize his career with a Pro Bowl season in 2024 before Darnold signed with the Seahawks this offseason. The Vikings are banking on that same coaching prowess to unlock Howell’s potential as he transitions into a backup role behind J.J. McCarthy.
McCarthy, the 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, is viewed as Minnesota’s long-term answer at quarterback. However, he did not see the field during his rookie season due to a knee injury sustained in the preseason. With McCarthy still developing and returning from injury, the addition of Howell gives the Vikings a capable, young quarterback with real starting experience to step in if necessary.
Currently, the only other backup on the Vikings roster is Brett Rypien, a veteran who has started just four games over six NFL seasons. By adding Howell, Minnesota significantly improves its quarterback depth and gains a player who could step into a larger role if needed.
Howell’s arrival also gives the Vikings flexibility. He has shown flashes of strong play, including his ability to make throws under pressure and extend plays with his legs. If O’Connell can help Howell improve his decision-making and pocket awareness, Minnesota could have a high-upside backup who could win games if called upon.
For Seattle, the trade allows them to move on after signing Darnold and drafting a new quarterback prospect. The Seahawks also benefit by moving up 30 spots in the fifth round, which could help them add depth elsewhere on their roster.
This trade fits a broader strategy for the Vikings as they reshape their quarterback room for the future. By combining a promising young starter in McCarthy with a talented backup in Howell, they are positioning themselves for long-term success while covering immediate needs.
Minnesota fans will be eager to see how Howell adapts to O’Connell’s system during training camp and whether he can push for playing time. For now, Howell provides security and potential at one of the NFL’s most crucial positions.
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