Cowboys Sign Former Eagles QB Sam Howell

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The Dallas Cowboys have signed former Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Sam Howell to their roster. Howell, a 25-year-old former fifth-round pick, spent the start of the 2025 offseason with the Minnesota Vikings before being traded to the Eagles, where he did not see any playing time in 2025. Prior to that, Howell had a starting opportunity with the Washington Commanders in 2023-24 but struggled with turnovers and sacks. He now joins the Cowboys, where he will compete for the QB3 role behind Dak Prescott and Joe Milton.

Why it matters

The Cowboys have added depth at the quarterback position by signing Howell, a former high draft pick who has starting experience in the NFL. While he struggled with the Commanders, the Cowboys are hoping a change of scenery and a chance to learn behind Prescott and Milton can help Howell develop into a viable NFL backup.

The details

The Cowboys announced on Thursday that they have signed Howell, who spent the start of the 2025 offseason with the Minnesota Vikings before being traded to the Eagles. In 2023-24, Howell started 17 games for the Washington Commanders, throwing for 3,946 yards but also tossing 21 interceptions and being sacked 65 times. The Commanders ultimately traded Howell to the Seahawks, where he appeared in just 3 games. Now the 6-foot-1 quarterback will look to earn a roster spot in Dallas as the team's QB3 behind Prescott and Milton.

• Howell signed with the Cowboys on Thursday, March 14, 2026.
• In 2023-24, Howell started 17 games for the Washington Commanders.
• Howell was traded from the Commanders to the Seahawks prior to the 2025 season.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Howell will compete for the Cowboys' QB3 role during training camp and the preseason.