The Minnesota Vikings announced on Sunday that they are trading quarterback Sam Howell to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for draft capital. The Vikings received a 2026 fifth-round pick and a 2027 seventh-round pick from the Eagles in exchange for Howell (Philadelphia received a 2026 sixth-round pick from the Vikings along with Howell). Howell, a 2022 fifth-round draft pick by Washington, is now set to become Philadelphia’s primary backup. The 23-year-old is joining his fourth team in as many seasons.
The additional pick gives the Vikings more resources to pursue a veteran receiver to fill another hole in their depth chart. Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, they have inquired about Carolina Panthers veteran Adam Thielen, but the Panthers have been reluctant to let him go.
The trade also alters Philadelphia’s quarterback depth chart. Howell now slots in as the No. 2 option behind Jalen Hurts, a role that had belonged to Tanner McKee. The third-year backup performed well in the preseason opener but has been sidelined since Tuesday with a finger injury. Howell’s addition also suggests the Eagles may be preparing for McKee to miss more time than initially expected. Over the weekend, head coach Nick Sirianni told reporters of the uncertainty regarding the QB’s recovery: “He’s working to get back. We’ll see where he is.”
Shortly after the trade was finalized, Minnesota revealed another quarterback move, signing former Eagles starter Carson Wentz. Wentz will take on the role of veteran backup behind JJ McCarthy, who is set to return after missing his rookie year due to a torn meniscus. According to the team, Wentz worked out with the Vikings on Saturday before officially agreeing to terms. The 31-year-old spent last season with the Kansas City Chiefs on a one-year contract but entered this offseason as a free agent. Minnesota marks Wentz’s sixth team in six years, following stints with the Eagles, Colts, Commanders, Rams, and Chiefs.
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