It seems the anticipated quarterback competition between Drew Lock and Sam Howell for the Seattle Seahawks’ backup role may never actually take place, despite earlier suggestions by GM John Schneider.
According to a report from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler and Brady Henderson, the Seahawks are now open to trading Howell, just a week after re-signing Lock to a two-year, $5 million contract. Howell, entering the final year of his rookie deal, has a non-guaranteed $1.1 million salary, so Seattle could trade or release him without financial consequence.
The Seahawks acquired Howell from the Washington Commanders last season in a pick swap that saw Seattle give up a third- and fifth-rounder for a fourth- and sixth-rounder.
After a pass-heavy stint in Washington, Howell was brought in to back up Geno Smith but saw limited action — completing just 5 of 14 passes for 24 yards and an interception in relief against the Packers, and handing the ball off once against the Falcons.
Now with Sam Darnold projected as the starter, Lock back in the mix, and Jaren Hall also on the roster, Howell’s role in Seattle became uncertain the moment Lock returned.
Despite Howell being only 24 with starting experience, the Seahawks are unlikely to recoup anything close to what they gave up to get him. A release remains likely, but Seattle may first test the market to see if another team in need of a potential starter or solid backup is willing to make a trade.
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