In the NFL, Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell worked wonders by turning Sam Darnold—a quarterback once labeled a “bust”—into a star who led the Vikings to the 2024 playoffs. Can O’Connell repeat this magic with Sam Howell, a young QB eyed as a potential QB2? With raw talent yet inconsistent performance, Howell is an “uncut gem” waiting to be polished. Here are three ways O’Connell could transform Howell into an outstanding QB2.
Kevin O’Connell and the Sam Darnold Miracle
A former QB and offensive guru, O’Connell guided Darnold to a stellar 2024: 67% completion, 4,200 yards, 32 TDs. His success stemmed from a smart offensive system emphasizing pre-snap reads, leveraging stars like Justin Jefferson, and improving pocket presence. These elements are key to unlocking Howell’s potential.
Sam Howell’s Journey: An Overlooked Gem
At 24, Sam Howell was the QB1 for the Washington Commanders (2023) and a backup for the Seattle Seahawks (2024). His stats:
2023 (Commanders): 63.4% completion, 3,946 yards, 21 TDs, 21 INTs, 65 sacks, 263 rushing yards, 5 rushing TDs. Howell showed a strong arm and accurate deep throws (like a 51-yard pass to Terry McLaurin), but mistakes (INTs, sacks) stemmed from a weak offensive line and lack of discipline.
2024 (Seahawks): One notable game (5/14 completions, 24 yards, 1 INT), limited by his backup role. Compared to Darnold (13 INTs in 2019), Howell has similar potential if placed in the right system.
3 Ways Kevin O’Connell Can Transform Sam Howell
Enhance Pre-Snap Reads and Decision-Making
Howell struggled under pressure in Washington, leading to 21 INTs and 65 sacks due to poor blitz anticipation. O’Connell, who helped Darnold cut sacks from 39 (2020) to 22 (2024), can teach Howell to read defenses pre-snap. This will reduce errors and boost confidence, especially as a QB2 behind J.J. McCarthy.
Leverage the Vikings’ Star Power
With Justin Jefferson (1,800+ yards in 2024), Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson, Howell would have elite targets. He worked well with Terry McLaurin (1,000+ yards in 2023) in Washington. O’Connell can design short and intermediate passes to ease Howell into the system before tapping his deep-ball ability (like a 35-yard throw to Dyami Brown in 2023).
Unleash Mobility and Versatility
A dual-threat QB, Howell ran for 263 yards and 5 TDs (2023) and 828 yards with 11 TDs in college. O’Connell, who used roll-outs and play-action for Darnold, can craft designed runs for Howell to surprise defenses, making him a dynamic QB2 weapon.
Projected Performance
If Howell joins the Vikings, he could achieve:
Completion: 65-68% Yards: 2,500-3,000 (10-12 games) TD/INT: 15/8 Sacks: Under 20, thanks to the Vikings’ top-10 NFL offensive line.
Why Howell Is an “Uncut Gem”?
Howell boasts a strong arm (550 yards, 6 TDs in a college game), mobility, and experience starting 17 straight games in Washington. At 24, with a $1.1M salary (2025), he’s a low-risk investment. Despite criticism for mistakes, Howell mirrors Darnold and Geno Smith, who thrived once in the right system.
Conclusion
Kevin O’Connell proved his QB-reviving prowess with Darnold. For Howell, a smart offensive system, the Vikings’ star-studded roster, and a low-pressure QB2 role offer the perfect stage to shine. If he seizes this chance, Howell could become the NFL’s next sparkling gem.