Eagles trade for Sam Howell, Vikings bring in Carson Wentz

Hang on to your hats, we’ve got ourselves a quarterback shuffle involving some familiar names. According to multiple reports, the Eagles are acquiring QB Sam Howell from the Vikings, while Minnesota is signing Carson Wentz to back up rookie J.J. McCarthy.

The Eagles’ Angle

The Eagles gave up a 2026 fifth-round pick in the deal while swapping late-rounders in 2027 (Eagles get a 6th, Vikings get a 7th). Not exactly a blockbuster price tag.

Eagles trade for Sam Howell, Vikings bring in Carson Wentz

Trade terms: Minnesota receives 5th in 2026 and a 7th in 2027

Philly gets QB Sam Howell and a 6th in 2026. https://t.co/y2QDQvcfw7

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 24, 2025

Why make the move, Howie?

Well, because Tanner McKee is dealing with a finger injury on his throwing hand. He’s not practicing, and Nick Sirianni sounded very non-committal when asked about his Week 1 status. Rookie Kyle McCord isn’t ready yet, so Sam Howell provides insurance as QB2 behind Jalen Hurts.

Sam Howell’s resume isn’t flashy. He’s been traded three times since being drafted in the 5th round by Washington in 2022, and he struggled in Minnesota’s camp after being dealt there earlier this year. Still, he has NFL experience with 18 career starts and that’s a lot more than McCord brings to the table.

The Vikings’ Side

For Minnesota, this clears the way for Carson Wentz to take the backup role behind McCarthy. Wentz, of course, is a familiar face in Philly. He’s now on his sixth team in six seasons (Eagles, Colts, Commanders, Rams, Chiefs, and now Vikings). He reunites with Vikings QB coach Josh McCown, his former teammate from 2019.

Wentz hasn’t been a full-time starter since 2022, but he showed enough in his backup stints with the Rams and Chiefs to prove he can still sling it in spots. The Vikings wanted a vet who could handle the system and step in if McCarthy falters, and Wentz checks those boxes more than Sam Howell.

Quick Thoughts

• For Philly: This is all about insurance for Hurts. If McKee’s finger lingers, Howell gives them someone who can at least manage games in a pinch.
• For Minnesota: Wentz is high-variance, but if he’s asked to spot-start, they’ll live with it. He’s also familiar with Sean McVay’s system, which is close to Kevin O’Connell’s.
• For Howell: The guy can’t seem to stick. But maybe a fresh start in Philly, where expectations for him are low, is the best situation yet.

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