The Las Vegas Raiders are one of several teams that could be interested in acquiring a quarterback this offseason. With the 13th pick in the draft, acquiring one of Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, or Jayden Daniels seemed doubtful. The Washington Commanders hold the No. 2 pick and, like the Raiders, need to find a quarterback. However, the current Commanders quarterback, Sam Howell, could be a good fit for the Raiders. Las Vegas may use a quarterback now that Jimmy Garoppolo has been benched.
Howell had an up-and-down season in 2023, throwing 21 interceptions. If not for the turnover difficulties, Howell would have had a great season, throwing for 3,946 yards. While he showed promise, the Commanders should move on from Howell and pick a quarterback. If they do, the Raiders should consider pursuing Howell, who has market value, according to Fox Sports’ Ralph Vacchiano.
“How about Howell?” According to multiple NFL sources, numerous teams are interested in dealing for the 23-year-old, who passed for 3,946 yards and 21 touchdowns in 17 starts last season (despite an NFL-worst 21 interceptions). If they decide to trade him around the draft, they may potentially obtain a third-round pick or more.
This suggested trade would give the Commanders third and fifth-round picks in exchange for Howell.
A third and fifth is a reasonable price for a young quarterback with potential. The Raiders would also have someone who can get Davante Adams the ball but is on a lower contract. According to Spotrac, Howell will earn less than $1 million in 2024.
This permits the Raiders to sign additional free agents.
Could the Commanders make a larger trade with the Raiders?
This summer, the Washington Commanders should consider trading packages that include Howell and Jonathan Allen. Allen has shown dissatisfaction with the organization, and considering his defensive ability, he could provide a nice return for the Commanders.
Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine proposed a trade in which Howell would be sent to the Las Vegas Raiders alongside Allen in exchange for Adams. The Commanders would also send the number 40 pick in the draft.
“Howell threw 21 interceptions this season, but he was also part of a pass-happy offence with an offensive line that allowed him to be sacked 65 times. There’s enough potential there for the Raiders to consider having him compete with Aidan O’Connell for the starting spot in 2024.
“However, the real prize in this transaction would be bringing in Jonathan Allen. The Raiders have the potential for a strong pass rush next season. Maxx Crosby recently completed his All-Pro season. Malcolm Koonce recorded six sacks after Antonio Pierce took over as head coach, and Tyree Wilson could improve in his second season.
While the Commanders would agree to this transaction, landing Howell and transferring Adams makes little sense for the Raiders. If they are going to deal Adams, they should try to move up from 13th in the draft.
Interesting Raiders Offseason Awaits
As the Las Vegas Raiders enter the offseason, they and the Washington Commanders face a number of difficult decisions.
Both teams require a quarterback, and with the Commanders projected to select one at No. 2, Washington might directly benefit the Raiders by dealing Howell to them.
For a third and fifth-round pick, the Raiders should go all in on a deal like this.
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