Cowboys Quarterback Sam Howell Ready to Compete for Backup Role Behind Dak Prescott

The Dallas Cowboys have added another name to their quarterback room, and the newest arrival is making it clear he intends to compete.

Sam Howell, the former Washington Commanders starter, recently joined the Cowboys as the team continues shaping its roster ahead of the upcoming NFL season. While Dak Prescott remains firmly established as the team’s starting quarterback, Howell says he is focused on earning the backup role and contributing to the team in whatever way he can.

For Howell, the opportunity in Dallas represents both a fresh start and a chance to prove himself in a new environment.

“I’m excited for the opportunity and ready to compete,” Howell said when discussing his role with the Cowboys. His approach reflects the mindset of a player who understands the importance of every spot on an NFL roster, especially at the quarterback position.

The Cowboys’ quarterback situation has been relatively stable in recent years with Prescott leading the offense. However, the team has periodically adjusted its depth chart behind him, bringing in players who can provide support, compete for roster spots, and step in if injuries occur.

Howell now enters that competition.

The 24-year-old quarterback originally entered the league after being selected by Washington in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Despite his mid-round draft position, Howell quickly gained attention for his strong arm and aggressive style of play.

He eventually earned a starting opportunity with Washington and started an entire season for the team. During that stretch, Howell demonstrated flashes of potential, throwing for thousands of yards and showing the ability to push the ball downfield.

However, the season also came with challenges.

Like many young quarterbacks adjusting to the NFL, Howell experienced inconsistency while facing some of the league’s toughest defenses. Washington ultimately moved in a different direction at quarterback, opening the door for Howell to seek a new opportunity elsewhere.

That opportunity now comes with the Cowboys.

In Dallas, Howell will not be expected to lead the offense immediately. Prescott remains the clear starter and the centerpiece of the Cowboys’ offensive system. Instead, Howell’s primary task will be competing for the backup position and learning the team’s offensive scheme.

Even so, the role of a backup quarterback in the NFL carries significant importance.

Injuries are an unavoidable part of professional football, and teams must always be prepared for the possibility that a backup could be called upon at any time. A capable backup quarterback can often make the difference between a team remaining competitive during adversity or watching a promising season collapse.

For the Cowboys, ensuring reliable depth behind Prescott has been a priority.

Over the years, Dallas has relied on various backup quarterbacks to support the offense. Some have served primarily as experienced veterans who help guide the quarterback room, while others have been younger players developing their skills within the system.

Howell fits into the latter category.

At just 24 years old, he still has room to grow as a player. His experience as a former starter also provides him with valuable game experience that many backup quarterbacks lack early in their careers.

Cowboys coaches are expected to evaluate Howell throughout offseason workouts, training camp, and preseason games as they determine how the quarterback depth chart will ultimately look.

The competition for the backup role could be one of the quieter but more important storylines of the Cowboys’ offseason.

For Howell, the path forward is clear.

He intends to compete, learn the offense, and show the coaching staff that he can be trusted if his number is called.

At the same time, Howell understands the hierarchy of the quarterback room.

Prescott is the leader of the offense and one of the most recognizable players in the franchise. Supporting him and helping the team succeed will remain the priority.

Still, Howell’s arrival adds an interesting dynamic to the Cowboys’ roster.

For a team with playoff ambitions, having reliable depth at quarterback can be just as important as star power at the top of the depth chart.

And if Howell performs well during camp and preseason, he could quietly become one of the most important insurance policies on the Cowboys’ roster.

Because in the NFL, every team hopes its backup quarterback never has to play.

But the best teams always make sure they are ready if he does.