The Seattle Seahawks traded quarterback Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders on Friday night, clearing the path for Sam Howell to become the team’s starting quarterback.
Howell, 24, saw limited action last season, appearing in just two games and throwing 14 passes after Seattle acquired him in a trade with the Washington Commanders.
The Commanders originally selected Howell in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. He became Washington’s starter in his second season, throwing for 3,946 yards with 21 touchdowns and 21 interceptions.
Turnovers were an issue for Howell in 2023, but he played behind one of the league’s worst offensive lines. The North Carolina product was sacked a league-high 65 times with Washington.
While some sacks resulted from Howell holding the ball too long, the high number clearly indicated protection problems.
Howell may face challenges in Seattle next season. The Seahawks recently released veteran receiver Tyler Lockett and reportedly are exploring trade options for D.K. Metcalf. This would leave Jaxon Smith-Njigba as Howell’s primary receiving target.
Seattle currently has just over $32 million in salary cap space, according to Over The Cap, giving them flexibility to add offensive weapons through free agency.
The team could also target receivers in the upcoming NFL Draft.
During his three-year college career at North Carolina, Howell twice led the ACC in touchdown passes.
We’ll see if the Seahawks hand him the ball in 2025.
