In a dramatic Sunday evening development, the Minnesota Vikings significantly reshaped their quarterback landscape by trading backup signal caller Sam Howell to the Philadelphia Eagles and swiftly bringing in veteran Carson Wentz to bolster depth behind promising rookie J.J. McCarthy.
The Trade: Sam Howell Heads to Philadelphia
The Vikings parted ways with 24 year old Sam Howell acquired just months earlier from Seattle sending him, along with a 2026 sixth-round draft pick, to the Eagles. In return, Minnesota secured a 2026 fifth-round selection and a 2027 seventh-round pick .
This marks Howell’s third team change since 2023, underscoring a turbulent few seasons in his early NFL journey . A fifth-round pick in 2022, Howell posted 4,139 passing yards, 22 touchdowns, 23 interceptions, and a 77.5 passer rating during his rookie tenure, illustrating flashes of upside amid inconsistency .
For the Eagles, acquiring Howell injects much-needed insurance behind reigning starter Jalen Hurts, particularly with Tanner McKee sidelined due to a finger injury . Analysts note that Howell might also pave the way for roster flexibility, possibly facilitating a trade of McKee in the near future .
To clear space for Howell, the Eagles waived injured Lewis Cine, the former Vikings first round safety, further underscoring the roster adjustments in play .
Minnesota’s Response: Signing Carson Wentz
Almost immediately after finalizing Howell’s trade, the Vikings announced the signing of 32 year old Carson Wentz to strengthen the backup position behind J.J. McCarthy .
Wentz, entering his sixth team in as many years, brings a vast resume that spans being the number two overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, a Super Bowl champion (LII), Pro Bowl and Second-Team All-Pro honors (2017) .
Most recently, he served as Patrick Mahomes’ backup in Kansas City, stepping in to start the final game of the season and delivering a competent performance behind the veteran quarterback .
In Minnesota’s QB room, Wentz joins J.J. McCarthy, who missed his entire rookie season due to a knee injury, as well as undrafted rookie Max Brosmer whose preseason play impressed team brass and seasoned backup Brett Rypien .
What This Means Moving Forward
For the Vikings, the Wentz signing delivers a seasoned presence to guide a quarterback room centering on a young and untested starter in McCarthy. Wentz’s experience offers both stability and mentorship as Minnesota prepares for the 2025 season .
For the Eagles, securing Howell adds much-needed depth behind Hurts. With McKee’s injury and backup options struggling, Howell’s experience including standout outings against Philadelphia in 2023 gives them a credible alternative should any setback occur .