Sam Darnold could lose a teammate in Seattle ahead of 2025 NFL season

The arrival of Sam Darnold in Seattle marks a bold move for a team aiming to become a serious contender in the NFC West the next NFL season. In an effort to build the most competitive roster possible, the Seahawks’ front office is now reportedly considering involving one of Darnold’s teammates in a potential trade.

Sam Howell, who joined the franchise last year from the Washington Commanders, has seen his role diminish following the arrivals of Sam Darnold and Drew Lock. As a result, his time in Seattle under head coach Mike Macdonald could be nearing its end.

The news was reported by NFL insider Jeremy Fowler, who stated via his official X account (formerly Twitter) that the former North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback has already drawn interest from multiple teams exploring a potential move for his services.

“The #Seahawks are open to trading QB Sam Howell and have received inquiries from teams, sources told @BradyHenderson and me,” the insider reported via @JFowlerESPN.

Sam Howell #6 of the Seattle Seahawks looks on against the Green Bay Packers at Lumen Field on December 15, 2024 in Seattle, Washington.

During his time in Seattle, Howell appeared in just two games — both coming off the bench. His performances fell short of expectations, which has fueled speculation that his stint with the franchise could be coming to an imminent end.

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GM John Schneider shared his thoughts on Howell

Seahawks general manager John Schneider isn’t leaving anything to chance as the team looks ahead. And while he holds Sam Howell in high regard, a potential trade involving the quarterback — one that could strategically strengthen the roster — isn’t being ruled out.

“Sam was put in a very hard spot last year,” Schneider told Seattle Sports 710-AM. “He comes in, he’s learning a new system. The year before, I think he led the league in attempts, and they didn’t run the ball at all. We loved the toughness and everything. He comes in, learns a whole new system that was heavy, heavy dropback and gets thrown into a game where we’re behind, we’re throwing the ball every play, backed up. It didn’t go well for him. He would admit that, probably from a preparation standpoint, too. But he wasn’t put in a great spot.”

He also added: “I think all of us, Sam included, would say, OK, last year is just a wash, man. Let’s put that aside. Let’s get back in a pro-style system, a proven system because he can move. As you guys well know, against us he had a really nice game running the ball as well two years ago. We know all three of those guys can move.”