Cowboys Sign QB Sam Howell to One-Year Deal

Former Eagles QB joins Dallas after stints with three NFC East teams

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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The Dallas Cowboys have agreed to terms on a one-year contract with quarterback Sam Howell. Howell, a 2022 fifth-round pick, has played for three different NFC East teams over his four-year NFL career, most recently with the Philadelphia Eagles. He will join a Cowboys quarterback room that already includes Dak Prescott, Joe Milton, and Will Grier.

Why it matters

The addition of Howell provides the Cowboys with additional depth and competition at the quarterback position behind Prescott. Howell's experience playing in the NFC East could also give Dallas some valuable insight into their divisional opponents.

The details

Howell, 25, has appeared in 20 NFL games, making 18 starts. Over his career, he has completed 404 of 645 passes for 4,139 yards, 22 touchdowns, and 23 interceptions. His first career start came against the Cowboys in Week 18 of the 2022 season, when he led the Commanders to a 26-6 victory. Howell has also spent time with the Seahawks and Vikings.

  • Howell was a fifth-round pick of the Commanders in the 2022 NFL Draft.
  • His first career start came against the Cowboys in Week 18 of the 2022 season.
  • Howell was traded from the Seahawks to the Vikings last offseason.
  • The Vikings then traded Howell and a sixth-round pick to the Eagles for a fifth-round pick and a seventh-round pick.

The players

Sam Howell

A 25-year-old quarterback who was a fifth-round pick of the Commanders in 2022 and has since played for three different NFC East teams.

Dak Prescott

The Cowboys' starting quarterback, who will now have Howell as a potential backup option.

Joe Milton

A quarterback the Cowboys traded for last offseason, who served as Prescott's backup in 2025.

Will Grier

Another quarterback on the Cowboys' roster, who will compete with Howell for a roster spot.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.