Sam Howell

Career StatsD

Year	Team	GP	Yards	TD	INT	RTG
Career		21	4,139	22	23	77.5
2025		2	118	0	1	61.8
2024		3	24	0	1	14.6

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

Dallas landed a solid backup quarterback at basement prices, earning a **C CVI** for what amounts to a low-risk depth signing. Howell's depth piece production tier aligns reasonably well with his $2.5M AAV, though the market for veteran backup quarterbacks has pushed even replacement-level arms into the $3-5M range in recent years. At 24, the former Washington starter still carries developmental upside that could make this deal look shrewd if he takes another step forward behind the scenes. The one-year, fully guaranteed structure eliminates any long-term commitment while giving Dallas flexibility to reassess after the season, though it also means they'll need to address the backup spot again next offseason if Howell doesn't impress. This signing represents competent roster management rather than a transformative move — the Cowboys secured adequate insurance at quarterback without breaking the bank, but didn't exactly uncover a hidden gem either.

Performance Analysis

Sam Howell grades as a rotational player among NFL quarterbacks — a below-average player at the position. His strongest area is completion percentage at 66.7% (above the NFL average of 64.2%), ranking as above average for the position. Passing yards per game, at 59.0 compared to an NFL average of 230.0, is where he falls short relative to the position. His efficiency metrics suggest a backup-caliber quarterback at this stage. His 2025 season graded as a D, a significant jump from his F mark in 2024.

Current Sentiment

Sam Howell arrives in Dallas on a modest one-year deal, signaling that the Cowboys view him primarily as a depth option and potential bridge quarterback rather than a long-term franchise cornerstone. His signing generated a modest but genuine wave of positive media attention, with multiple outlets framing the move as a sensible, low-risk addition for a team still sorting out its quarterback room heading into 2026. Howell's lone noted start resulted in a victory, a detail that has given fan circles a small but tangible reason for cautious optimism about his upside. His career passer rating and contract value, however, keep expectations firmly grounded, and most analysts regard him as a serviceable backup rather than a legitimate starter-in-waiting. The broader narrative surrounding Dallas's 2026 draft needs suggests the organization may still be searching for a more permanent answer at the position, which tempers enthusiasm around Howell's role going forward.