As the Minnesota Vikings consider trading for Sam Howell as a backup quarterback (QB2) for J.J. McCarthy, they’re not just looking for a safety net. Howell, 24, with a strong arm and elusive mobility, represents the new generation of NFL quarterbacks: young, versatile, but reliant on the right system to shine. In an NFL increasingly dominated by fast-paced offensive schemes, can Howell help the Vikings adapt and even recreate the “Dobbsanity” magic of Josh Dobbs in 2023? Let’s explore Howell’s potential and his role in shaping the modern QB meta.
The Shifting Meta: Young, Mobile, and Versatile QBs
The NFL has undergone a quarterback revolution. Gone are the days of pocket-passing statues like Tom Brady dominating the league. Teams now covet young, mobile QBs who can throw deep and escape pressure with their legs. According to Pro Football Focus, QBs with at least 200 rushing yards in the 2023-24 season increased by 30% compared to a decade ago. Names like Jalen Hurts, Lamar Jackson, and Justin Fields have defined this meta, turning scrambles into strategic weapons.
Sam Howell, while not yet a star, embodies this trend. In 2023 with the Washington Commanders, he led the NFL with 612 pass attempts, racking up 3,946 yards, 21 touchdowns, and 21 interceptions, while adding 263 rushing yards and 5 rushing touchdowns. His ability to escape the pocket and create plays (209 rushing yards in his first 11 games of 2023) draws comparisons to Baker Mayfield—a fellow mobile QB who revived his career under Dave Canales. However, Howell’s flaws are evident: 22 “turnover-worthy” throws (second-most in the NFL) and a league-high 65 sacks, highlighting his need for a supportive system to minimize mistakes.
Compared to Josh Dobbs, Howell shares striking similarities. Dobbs sparked “Dobbsanity” in 2023, stunning the Falcons with a 31-28 Vikings win just days after being traded from the Cardinals, despite minimal practice. With 158 passing yards, 66 rushing yards, and 3 touchdowns, Dobbs showcased his ability to adapt to Kevin O’Connell’s fast-paced offense. Both Howell and Dobbs are young (Howell 24, Dobbs 28 in 2023), possess strong arms, and excel as runners (Dobbs ranked third among QBs in rushing grade per PFF in 2023). Yet Dobbs thrived in O’Connell’s system, while Howell struggled in Washington due to a porous offensive line and lack of support.
Howell and the Vikings’ Fast-Paced Offense
Under O’Connell, the Vikings are known for a high-tempo offense that leverages quick throws and play-action. In 2023, they ranked eighth in the NFL for plays gaining 20+ yards, thanks to weapons like Justin Jefferson and T.J. Hockenson. Howell, with experience on deep throws (a 42-yard strike to Terry McLaurin in 2023) and the ability to gain 12-15 yards per scramble, could fit seamlessly into this scheme.
Compared to Dobbs, Howell has the edge in youth and long-term potential. While Dobbs’ 2023 heroics faded after four interceptions against the Bears, Howell could be molded into a reliable QB2 by O’Connell. For instance, Howell’s 66.1% completion rate under pressure (despite 65 sacks) suggests he can capitalize on the Vikings’ quick play-action plays, where Jefferson and Jordan Addison create open windows. At just $1.1 million for 2025, Howell is a cost-effective option, freeing up cap space for other positions. [Memory: April 14, 2025, 07:08]
Still, Howell must address his decision-making issues. In 2024 with the Seahawks, he completed just 5 of 14 passes with one interception across two games, exposing his inconsistency without a strong system. O’Connell, who transformed Sam Darnold into a top-tier QB with 4,200 yards and 32 touchdowns in 2024, could help Howell improve by teaching him to read plays faster and avoid risky throws. [Memory: April 14, 2025, 07:08]
Predicting Howell’s Role in the Fast-Attack Meta
If the Vikings acquire Howell, he could help them counter teams with rapid-fire offenses like the Chiefs or Dolphins, which rely on speed and QB versatility. Against Kansas City, for example, Howell’s scrambling ability could extend plays, forcing Steve Spagnuolo’s defense to spread thin. This mirrors how Dobbs used 19 first-down runs in eight games with the Cardinals in 2023.
Unlike Dobbs, Howell offers greater long-term upside. Dobbs, despite “Dobbsanity,” was limited by his lack of sustained QB1 experience, posting 1,569 yards and 8 touchdowns in eight Cardinals games. Howell, with 3,946 yards and 17 starts at age 23, has a stronger foundation to grow into a QB capable of leading the team if McCarthy is sidelined. [Memory: April 16, 2025, 00:12] Should McCarthy re-injure his knee, Howell could lean on quick throws to Hockenson (7.8 yards per catch in 2023) or Addison (10.1 yards per catch) to maintain offensive tempo.
Challenges and the Future
Despite his promise, Howell faces hurdles: competing in training camp and meeting the expectations of Vikings fans who still reminisce about “Dobbsanity.” One X post called Howell “a budget Baker Mayfield” but warned he needs “a great coach to avoid another 21-interception season.” If O’Connell can’t curb Howell’s mistakes, he risks being benched like Dobbs in 2023.
Looking ahead, Howell could shape the Vikings’ QB meta toward greater flexibility. If he succeeds, he’ll reinforce the NFL’s shift toward young, mobile, cost-effective QBs over pricey veterans like Kirk Cousins. [Memory: April 16, 2025, 00:12] In a 2025 playoff scenario, Howell could be a game-changer off the bench, much like Dobbs against the Falcons. A 15-yard scramble for a first down or a 40-yard bomb to Jefferson could define his career.
Conclusion
Sam Howell isn’t Josh Dobbs, but he carries similar potential: a young, mobile QB ready to explode in the right system. With Kevin O’Connell’s guidance and weapons like Justin Jefferson, Howell could help the Vikings thrive in the NFL’s fast-attack meta while laying the groundwork for the future. Can he reignite “Dobbsanity”? Only time will tell, but if the Vikings bet on Howell, they’re investing in the future of football itself.