Sam Howell, who started all 17 games for Washington in 2023, has been linked to the Eagles as a potential backup option. Still, with Howell having been traded multiple times recently, insiders suggest he could seek a better situation that offers a clearer path to starting duties if given a chance.
Philadelphia surprised some by trading for Howell from the Vikings in August, a move framed as insurance if McKee missed time early in the season. Howell’s 2023 campaign, marked by 21 interceptions and 65 sacks, was challenging, but his status as a high-level QB2 could attract market interest in free agency.
The Eagles’ quarterback strategy may continue to evolve with draft plans, as some expect Philadelphia to consider another quarterback in 2026. Zach Berman of The Athletic floated Arkansas quarterback Taylen Green as a potential fourth-round target, highlighting Green’s size, arm talent, and dual-threat potential, albeit with the caveat that he would require development.
Overall, the Eagles appear prepared to retain McKee as a core backup and explore supplementary options only if a clearer opportunity for a starter emerges elsewhere or in the draft. This approach aligns with a cautious, development-focused path at the quarterback position while monitoring free-agent markets.
