4 important questions Seahawks still must answer ahead of the 2024 season

Is Sam Howell truly a long-term option at quarterback?

This question could be answered in two different ways. One is if the Seahawks take a quarterback high in the 2024 draft that likely means that Schneider thinks Howell is a potential starter, at least for one season. Why Howell instead of Geno Smith? Because both quarterbacks are signed through 2025 but Howell is the much cheaper option. If Seattle takes a quarterback in 2024 (which seems unlikely and somewhat illogical) then releasing Smith prior to 2025 would save the team $25 million and Howell could start in the rookie's season season or serve as backup.

But Howell will have to prove he can quickly grasp Ryan Grubb's offense in training camp as well. The former North Carolina Tar Heel has a reputation for being extremely coachable, and he also seems like a humble guy. But while he might be easy to work with for a coach that does not mean he can quickly and fully implement the scheme. He did throw 21 touchdowns in 2023, but he also threw 21 interceptions so his decision-making might be, at times, questionable.

But Grubb might also be the best overall coach Howell will have had in the NFL. The new OC might be able to fully get the proverbial light bulb to turn on for Howell so that he is a very productive quarterback. If that is the case and the Seahawks do not draft a quarterback in 2024, Howell could still be the starter in 2025 and beyond.

Seattle would then release Smith, save lots of money, start Howell, and find an inexpensive backup. That is at least the best case for Howell, if not Smith, and maybe not Seattle. It's still a possibility, however.