The Minnesota Vikings have made a significant move to strengthen their quarterback position by officially naming a new backup. Recent reports indicate that the Vikings have traded quarterback Sam Howell to the Philadelphia Eagles and signed Carson Wentz to serve as the backup to starter J.J. McCarthy.
In a strategic deal, Philadelphia will send Minnesota a 2026 fifth-round pick and a 2027 seventh-round pick in exchange for Howell, alongside a 2026 sixth-round pick. This move marks Howell's third trade in his young career, which began just a couple of seasons ago.
Howell, originally a fifth-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, is entering the final year of his rookie contract. He began his professional career with the Washington Commanders, where he started all 17 games in the 2023 season. During that time, he led the league in several categories, including passing attempts (612), interceptions (21), and sacks taken (65). After a brief stint with the Seattle Seahawks in which he played in two games, Howell was traded to the Vikings in April.
Carson Wentz, 32, joins the Vikings after a season spent backing up Patrick Mahomes with the Kansas City Chiefs. In his limited appearances during the 2024 season, Wentz started in the regular-season finale against the Los Angeles Chargers, where he completed 12-of-19 passes for 118 yards. Since leaving the Eagles at the end of the 2020 season, Wentz has experienced a nomadic career, playing for the Colts, Commanders, Rams, and most recently, the Chiefs.
This trade not only solidifies the Vikings' quarterback depth but also brings in a veteran presence in Wentz, who was the second overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. With McCarthy leading the offense, the addition of Wentz could provide valuable experience and mentorship for the young quarterback.
As the Vikings prepare for the upcoming season, fans will be keen to see how these changes impact the team's performance and dynamics on the field.
