The Seattle Seahawks currently have three quarterbacks on their roster, but it is expected that they will carry only two into Week 1, with Geno Smith secure as the starting QB.
This leaves Sam Howell and PJ Walker competing for the remaining spot. According to Michael-Shawn Dugar of The Athletic, Smith and Howell are projected to be the team’s two quarterbacks, suggesting that Walker might be released when the final 53-man roster is set. The Seahawks have until August 27 to finalize their roster and decide how many quarterbacks to retain.
Dugar noted that Howell performed better against the Chargers than he had in training camp, which was anticipated by coach Mike Macdonald. Howell’s improved performance in the August 10 preseason game, where he threw for 130 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions while completing 59% of his passes, was a positive sign. He also added 17 rushing yards.
Sam Howell’s first touchdown as a Seahawk
Many more to come 🐐👑#Seahawks pic.twitter.com/N1ijgaGnmg
— pop (@imightbepop) August 10, 2024
In contrast, Walker completed just 40% of his passes for 61 yards with no touchdowns in the same game. Macdonald praised Howell’s performance, highlighting his effective management of the offense and decision-making.
PJ Walker, who initially gained attention in the XFL before joining the NFL, has had a varied career with brief stints with several teams, including the Carolina Panthers and the Cleveland Browns. Walker has played in 21 NFL games with nine starts and is known for his mobility and rushing ability.
While Seattle could choose to keep all three quarterbacks, doing so would limit their ability to address other positional needs. As Dugar pointed out, Walker would need to significantly outperform Howell to secure a spot, considering the Seahawks invested a third-round pick to acquire Howell. This situation could give Howell an advantage in the backup quarterback competition if it remains close.
