Quarterback Kyler Murray
Cowboys’ $2.5 Million QB Emerges as Surprise Option for Vikings Amid Kyler Murray Setback 1
Kyler Murray’s Minnesota Vikings debut ended in the first quarter after a vicious hit to his helmet from Green Bay Packers safety Javon Bullard put him in the concussion protocol.
Murray was sliding at the end of a scramble when the hit occurred. Minnesota ruled him out for the game after he completed 3 of 5 passes for 19 yards and threw an interception. Backup quarterback Carson Wentz took over, throwing three touchdowns to secure a 39-22 victory.
However, the injury leaves the Vikings thin at quarterback with only Wentz and third-stringer J.J. McCarthy available. With no clear timeline for Murray’s return, Dallas Cowboys backup Sam Howell has quickly emerged as a potential trade target for Minnesota.
Sam Howell fits for Vikings after Kyler Murray concussion
Howell signed a one-year, $2.5 million deal with Dallas this offseason to back up Dak Prescott. The Cowboys currently carry three quarterbacks: Prescott as the starter, Howell at No. 2, and Joe Milton III on the practice squad, who was released and then re-signed to the practice squad.
Having such depth, owner Jerry Jones has the leverage to trade his backup quarterback for a future draft pick and he may greenlight the offer.
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry JonesDallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones
Sep 28, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones looks on before the game against the Green Bay Packers at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Howell has thrown for 4,139 yards, 22 touchdowns, and 23 interceptions while completing 62.6% of his passes across 20 career games. He started 18 of those matchups, mostly during his time as Washington’s starter.
He offers real starting experience if Kyler Murray’s concussion recovery drags on, or if Minnesota needs an immediate option ahead of Carson Wentz and J.J. McCarthy.
The potential move brings together Howell’s cheap contract, his experience, and the Cowboys’ quarterback depth to address the active injury problem for the Vikings. However, any progress on this hypothetical deal relies on how fast Murray clears the NFL’s concussion protocol over the next few days.
More NFL News: