Breaking: Vikings Ready to Trade Sam Howell for $27.5M Quarterback’s Return to Former Home
In a bold and unexpected move, league sources confirm that the Minnesota Vikings are preparing to trade quarterback Sam Howell in a deal that would bring a $27.5 million veteran quarterback back to his former team — potentially reshaping the QB landscape in the NFL ahead of training camp.
While the Vikings have not officially commented, multiple insiders report that Minnesota is deep in trade discussions with the Washington Commanders, centered around bringing Kirk Cousins back to D.C. and sending Sam Howell the other way.
Cousins, who signed a two-year deal with Minnesota in 2018 and recently returned from an Achilles injury, left the Vikings this past offseason in free agency — reportedly eyeing one last shot at a Super Bowl with a more competitive roster. However, sources say his transition to his new team (widely believed to be Atlanta) has hit unexpected hurdles, including fit concerns and scheme conflicts.
Now, the Vikings, intrigued by the idea of solidifying their quarterback situation while developing rookie J.J. McCarthy, are open to parting with Howell, whom they acquired from Washington earlier this offseason as a high-upside backup option. The Commanders, meanwhile, are exploring veteran insurance behind rookie Jayden Daniels and may welcome Cousins’ leadership as Daniels adjusts to the NFL.
Why This Makes Sense
For the Vikings:
Kirk Cousins is a known quantity in Kevin O’Connell’s system.
With McCarthy still in developmental mode, bringing in a seasoned starter gives them a more stable bridge option.
Cousins is reportedly healthy and ready to play Week 1.
For Washington:
Sam Howell knows the system, having started 17 games for the Commanders in 2023.
He provides a low-cost, high-upside backup behind Daniels, with potential starting ability if needed.
The move also relieves them of Cousins’ hefty contract.
What’s Next?
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported the deal is “close but not finalized,” with some cap restructuring and draft pick compensation still being discussed. If finalized, it would mark one of the most dramatic full-circle quarterback stories in recent memory — Kirk Cousins returning to where it all began, and Sam Howell getting a chance to revive his career in a new system with fewer expectations.
Vikings fans should brace for what could be a blockbuster move with major implications for the NFC North — and beyond.
