The Minnesota Vikings acquired quarterback Sam Howell in a trade with Seattle on Saturday during the NFL draft, swapping fifth-round picks with the Seahawks for a young backup for J.J. McCarthy who has starting experience.

Instead of releasing Howell, the Seahawks were able to get some draft compensation for him. They moved up 30 spots in the fifth round to select defensive lineman Rylie Mills out of Notre Dame. Mills might not be a starter in 2025, but Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald was clearly eyeing him, which would explain why Seattle made the trade up to get him.

Though no official announcement will be made at any point in the near future, it’s likely that the Vikings will head into next season with J.J. McCarthy as their starting quarterback and Howell as their backup quarterback.