Commanders’ QB Sam Howell Named Trade Fit for 2 AFC Teams
He’s not going to remain the starting quarterback for the Washington Commanders, but Sam Howell still has value as a trade commodity. Howell has been named a trade fit for two AFC teams, the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers.
The idea of Howell being available for the Jets is something SNY.tv’s Connor Hughes loves: “I love the idea of this, assuming he’s available. The Commanders could easily keep him as the backup. It’s not like this is a Sam Darnold, Justin Fields situation. If available, though, I’d prioritize him over anyone else.”
Howell makes sense for the Jets on multiple levels, but he’d also suit the Steelers. As the Draft Network’s Justin Melo put it, Howell would provide strong competition for starter Kenny Pickett: “Howell’s competitive attitude makes him an ideal candidate to push Pickett in training camp.”
Dealing Howell would be risky for the Commanders, since veteran backup Jacoby Brissett is a free agent, and a return to the AFC North has already been suggested. Yet, moving Howell on for some draft compensation would give new general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn more resources to rebuild the roster.
It would also mean creating a clean break at football’s most important position. Leaving a clear path for the potential franchise quarterback the Commanders are likely to select second overall in the 2024 NFL draft.
