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Washington Commanders’ QB Sam Howell is a hot trade target for two AFC teams.
Despite not being the starting quarterback for the Washington Commanders, Sam Howell holds value as a trade commodity. Howell has been identified as a potential trade fit for two AFC teams: the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers.
The possibility of Howell joining the Jets is highly favored by SNY.tv’s Connor Hughes: “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’s suitability for the Jets extends beyond just one aspect, as he would also be a good fit for the Steelers. According to Justin Melo from the Draft Network, Howell’s competitive attitude would make him an ideal candidate to challenge starter Kenny Pickett during training camp.
Trading Howell would carry some risk for the Commanders, especially considering that veteran backup Jacoby Brissett is a free agent who has been linked to a return to the AFC North. However, moving Howell in exchange for draft compensation would provide new general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn with additional resources to rebuild the team’s roster.
Furthermore, trading Howell would create a clear path for the potential franchise quarterback that the Commanders are likely to select with the second overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft.
One of the strongest selling points for Howell’s potential move to the Jets is his low cap hit, which is under $1 million for each of the next two years, as noted by Hughes. While the financial aspect is crucial for owner Woody Johnson, there are also individuals within the Jets organization who believe in Howell’s ability to perform.
Howell would also be a suitable backup for Aaron Rodgers, provided the 40-year-old makes a full recovery from the torn Achilles that ended his season in Week 1.
Considering Rodgers’ age and durability, acquiring a capable backup becomes a priority for the Jets. Howell fits the bill, having demonstrated his ability to make big-time throws, according to PFF Commanders.
Sam Howell currently leads the NFL with 24 big-time throws this season. This genuine big-play capability makes Howell a more appealing option than the Jets’ current quarterback, Zach Wilson. ESPN’s Rich Cimini even suggests that Wilson is a potential trade candidate.
Replacing Wilson with Howell would be a beneficial move for the Jets, but Howell’s arm strength would also make him an attractive option for the Steelers.
After parting ways with Mitchell Trubisky, the Steelers are in need of a quarterback, as reported by NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo.
The Steelers and QB Mitchell Trubisky have mutually agreed to part ways. This decision allows Trubisky, 29, to start fresh just over a month before the league year and free agency begin.
Trubisky’s Departure Creates Opportunity for Howell
In a surprising move, Mitchell Trubisky has left the team, opening up a spot for the young and promising quarterback, Howell. While it remains to be seen if Howell will be traded, there are rumors that Peters, the team’s general manager, might be willing to part ways with him for a day-three pick.
Trading Howell for a late-round selection might not be seen as fair compensation for a player who was designated as the team’s QB1 this season. However, Howell didn’t have much of a chance to establish himself in that role, thanks in part to the pass-heavy offense implemented by former coordinator Eric Bieniemy. Additionally, the offensive line’s poor performance, allowing a staggering 65 sacks, didn’t help Howell’s development either.
Howell’s struggles and high number of turnovers eventually led to him being benched. These difficulties highlight the mismanagement of talent that was all too common under the team’s previous head coach, Ron Rivera.
Now, it’s up to Peters, the team’s general manager, head coach Quinn, and new offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury to ensure a swift and successful rebuild with a new QB1 at the helm.
James Dudko is a sports reporter covering the New York Giants, Washington Commanders, New England Patriots, and Baltimore Ravens for a tabloid publication.
According to the Source heavy.com