Dallas Cowboys Sign Sam Howell to Bolster Quarterback Depth

The Dallas Cowboys moved quickly Tuesday to strengthen their quarterback room, signing Sam Howell to a one-year contract after the former Philadelphia Eagles backup became a free agent. Howell’s addition gives the Cowboys a capable alternative behind starter Dak Prescott while simultaneously pulling a quarterback away from an NFC East competitor.

At 25, Howell brings both youth and experience to Dallas. He entered the NFL as a fifth-round pick by the Washington Commanders in 2022 after a standout career at the University of North Carolina. Over the past few seasons, Howell has developed familiarity with NFC East defenses, a factor that makes him a valuable asset for Dallas as it enters offseason workouts.

Howell spent the 2025 season with the Eagles as a third-string and emergency quarterback behind Jalen Hurts and Tanner McKee, although he did not see any regular-season action. Prior to that, he started several games with Washington in 2023, providing him with meaningful NFL experience that the Cowboys hope will translate into dependable depth.

The signing also replaces Joe Milton III, who had been the Cowboys’ primary in-house backup behind Prescott. Howell adds a combination of developmental upside and readiness, giving Dallas flexibility as the team navigates offseason workouts and prepares for the 2026 NFL Draft.

1. Howell’s NFL Journey

Howell’s NFL career began when the Washington Commanders selected him in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. From his first season, he displayed potential as a starting-caliber quarterback with mobility and a strong arm. In 2023, Howell earned his first extended starting opportunity with Washington. He faced NFC East opponents and gained valuable experience reading complex divisional defenses, which will now benefit Dallas. His game tape provides insight for coaches evaluating his potential as a backup and occasional starter if needed. The 2025 season saw Howell join Philadelphia as a reserve behind Hurts and McKee. While he did not play in any games, his presence in practice and the quarterback room contributed to his development and understanding of professional offensive schemes. This combination of starting experience and practice exposure makes Howell a well-rounded addition for the Cowboys, offering a blend of game readiness and developmental potential at the backup position.

2. Value to the Cowboys

Adding Howell does more than simply improve Dallas’ depth chart. His familiarity with NFC East defenses gives the Cowboys a strategic advantage when preparing for divisional matchups. Howell’s knowledge of schemes and tendencies within the division could provide valuable insight to the coaching staff during game planning. He also brings flexibility, capable of stepping in if Prescott misses time due to injury, without the team having to rely on a purely untested option. Beyond immediate utility, Howell represents a developmental investment. At 25, he is still growing as a passer and could potentially evolve into a longer-term backup or rotational option, particularly in high-leverage situations. Simultaneously, the Cowboys weaken Philadelphia by acquiring a player the Eagles had in their quarterback room. This move reduces potential depth for a divisional rival while bolstering Dallas’ position group heading into a competitive 2026 season.

3. Looking Ahead

Howell’s signing arrives as the Cowboys prepare for offseason activities, including workouts, OTAs, and the 2026 NFL Draft. His presence ensures a seasoned option behind Prescott while the team evaluates future quarterback needs. With Howell on board, Dallas can focus on refining its offense without worrying about depth concerns at the quarterback position. The young passer’s familiarity with division rivals provides both practical backup and strategic insight for upcoming NFC East matchups. The move also reflects a broader trend of teams targeting experienced backups who can contribute immediately while maintaining developmental potential. Howell fits this profile, offering a balance of NFL experience and upside. As the Cowboys approach the upcoming season, Howell’s addition enhances roster flexibility and strengthens the team’s overall depth chart, providing insurance and tactical advantage in a division known for its competitiveness.