The Seattle Seahawks made a significant move during the offseason as they were able to trade with the Washington Commanders for quarterback Sam Howell.
The Seahawks acquired Howell and picks 102 and 179 in the 2024 NFL draft in exchange for the 78th and 152nd picks in the same draft. However, there were questions as to why Seattle did not attempt to wait until the draft to secure a quarterback with the first round being loaded with talent at the position.
While making an appearance on “The Insiders,” Seahawks general manager John Schneider discussed the situation that led the team to make a trade for Sam Howell.
In the discussion, Schneider mentioned how the team believed six quarterbacks were going to be taken in the 2024 NFL draft in the first 16 picks, meaning Seattle would not get a player they believed to be a first-round talent under center.
Why did the #Seahawks trade for Sam Howell instead of waiting to draft a quarterback? It involved a film session in which they concluded six QBs could be gone before they were on the clock at No. 16. 👀
Great stuff from GM John Schneider tonight on The Insiders. pic.twitter.com/CAZXabqpu9
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) June 7, 2024
Howell was the starting quarterback for the Washington Commanders last season and struggled a bit as he went 388-of-612 (63.4%) for 3,946 yards with 21 touchdowns to 21 interceptions in his first year as a starting quarterback.
However, he is currently being listed behind Geno Smith on the depth chart for the Seahawks and competing to remain a starting quarterback.
Why did the Seattle Seahawks trade for Sam Howell?
There are a few reasons why the Seattle Seahawks felt like this move was better.
One is the fact that the team did not own their second-round pick in the draft, limiting the potential of their chances to move up in the draft. Seattle held to the 16th pick as a result and their feeling was correct as Bo Nix was the sixth quarterback off the board and was selected 12th overall by the Denver Broncos.
Another reason for the move is the fact that he has a very favorable rookie contract, as Howell was selected in the fifth round of the draft in 2022.
He still has two more seasons under contract for $2.085 million, a very favorable price for a backup quarterback who has some experience. The Seahawks could also use the ability that they have built up their offensive line to give Howell a better chance after being sacked a league-leading 65 times.
The Seattle Seahawks have someone who can compete with Geno Smith for the starting quarterback position if they want or even provide a backup with experience as a starter.
Either way, this move did not cost too much for the franchise and gives them a potential starter down the line.
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