Message to Seahawks backup QB Sam Howell: stay ready

It is only August 2nd and the Seattle Seahawks are already breathing a collective sigh of relief on the injury front. Starting quarterback Geno Smith missed the last two practices due to nagging knee and hip injuries. This was a rather unfortunate time for him, as he was reportedly on fire during practice to start camp.

Fortunately, the good news is it appears he will be fine. The MRI test results did not find anything significant, and that he should not miss any time.

Phew!

Smith is objectively the best quarterback the Seahawks have at their disposal. His availability changes everything on how we view this team and their success for 2024. Keeping him on the field will give Seattle their best opportunity to return to the postseason.

But this injury scare gave me one thought above all else: Backup quarterback Sam Howell better stay ready. The Seahawks clearly see something in Howell, otherwise they would not have traded for him – and outbid the rival Los Angeles Rams to do so.

Howell is brimming with potential. Yes, his 21 interceptions last season with the abysmal Washington Commanders is a major concern. But Howell had more than enough flashes to show he potentially has something worth developing. With Smith out the last two practices, and who knows how many more, Howell is gaining valuable reps with the first team offense. Howell needs to make the most of this opportunity, because despite how durable Geno Smith has been, injuries could strike at any point.

Smith missed two games last year due to injuries after not missing a single one in 2022. Smith may not have the mileage on his body other quarterbacks his age do thanks to all the years spent as a backup, but he is still 33 and will be 34 this October. Him missing more time is clearly not out of the realm of possibilty.

The NFL is the ultimate “next man up” league. Plenty of careers have emerged as a result of taking over for injury or absense to a starter. Should this be the case for Sam Howell, I once again say…

…stay ready.

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