The Dallas Cowboys have made an intriguing move in the early days of free agency by bringing in quarterback Sam Howell on a one-year deal. With Joe Milton expected to back up Dak Prescott, Howell's arrival shakes up the quarterback room, adding some healthy competition during training camp and the preseason.
Howell's journey through the NFL has been eventful. In just four seasons, he's gone from being the full-time starter for the Washington Commanders in 2023 to taking backup roles with the Seattle Seahawks and Philadelphia Eagles in the subsequent years. Now, Howell is eyeing a more permanent spot in Dallas under the guidance of head coach Brian Schottenheimer.
“Dallas is a great place,” Howell shared, expressing his eagerness to work with Schottenheimer. “I respect Dak and what he’s accomplished. I’d love to be here as long as they’ll have me.”
Reflecting on his time as a starter, Howell noted, “Starting 17 games taught me a lot. Sure, there are things I’d do differently, but those experiences made me better. I learned about game management and winning football, even if turnovers were an issue.”
When it came to choosing his new team, the chance to work with Schottenheimer was a major draw. “It’s about the people,” Howell explained.
“I believe I have a lot of good football ahead, and Schotty’s reputation for developing quarterbacks was enticing. Everyone speaks highly of him, and I’ve seen firsthand what he’s achieved.”
Though Howell has only briefly crossed paths with Milton, he’s eager to collaborate. “I respect Joe.
He’s talented and seems like a great guy. My goal is to make the room better, push each other, and support Dak.”
This move to Dallas holds personal significance for Howell. Growing up in North Carolina, his father was a die-hard Cowboys fan, a passion passed down to Howell during the Tony Romo era.
“My dad was a big Cowboys fan,” Howell recalled. “I was a huge fan too, loved watching Romo, and even in college, I admired Dak.”
Now, Howell has the chance to share the field with one of his idols, embracing the opportunity to contribute to the Cowboys' success in the 2026 season.