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Kevin Seifert
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Brady Henderson
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Brady Henderson
ESPN
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Brady Henderson reports for NFL Nation, focusing on the Seattle Seahawks. He joined ESPN in 2017 after covering the team for Seattle Sports 710-AM.
The Seattle Seahawks have traded quarterback Sam Howell to the Minnesota Vikings, as announced on Saturday.
In the deal, Minnesota exchanged its fifth-round pick, No. 142, which was used on defensive tackle Rylie Mills, to the Seahawks in return for Howell and the 172nd pick.
Howell is now likely set to back up quarterback J.J. McCarthy, with Brett Rypien also under contract.
Following the Seahawks’ signing of Drew Lock to presumably serve as the backup to starter Sam Darnold, the trade became more likely. It was expected after the Seahawks selected Jalen Milroe in the third round on Friday.
Seahawks assistant GM Nolan Teasley expressed appreciation for Howell’s contributions, noting the recent draft decision likely influenced the trade. Meanwhile, Vikings’ VP Ryan Grigson highlighted Howell’s starting experience for the Washington Commanders as a valuable asset.
The Vikings have yet to officially name McCarthy as their starting quarterback for the 2025 season despite his recovery from an injury. The team had previously considered signing free agent Aaron Rodgers before deciding to focus on McCarthy’s development.
Howell, who was drafted by Washington in 2022, experienced a challenging season last year, contributing to how the Seahawks restructured their quarterback roster, which has seen significant changes over the past few months.
