Steelers NFL Draft Series: QB Sam Howell

There is no question he has shown tremendous moxie throughout his time at UNC. However, his stats dropped off significantly from 2020-2021. Plenty of that can be attributed to his strong supporting cast, like RB's Javonte Williams and Michael Carter, along with WR Dyami Brown, moving onto the NFL. In his first two seasons at UNC, Howell threw for a combined 68 TD's to just 14 INT's. Last season, he tossed 24 scores and had 9 INT's.

Let's get into some strengths and weaknesses of one of the most polarizing draft prospects this year:

Strengths 

Well thrown deep ball with proper placement

Very good RPO game.

(He's not Malik Willis or Desmond Ridder with his feet, but he isn't by any means a statue)

Accurate short game 

Productive 

Tough

Weaknesses 

Flat Footed in the pocket 

Stares down receivers 

Abandons the pocket too soon 

Hardly ever under center 

Lowers vision when pressured 

Summary 

Howell was an ultra productive college Quarterback. He’s your typical RPO Quarterback. He’s very accurate in short game and when he’s throwing to his pre-snap read. He’s mildly athletic and not afraid to take a hit. He has a solid understanding of allowing his playmakers to make plays when throwing the home run ball. 

The eye-popping negative about Sam’s game is his inability to maneuver the pocket and consistently make accurate throws in the intermediate passing game. He does not show the ability to step up in the pocket and keep his eyes downfield. He will often put his head down to run and pick up a few yards. That style works at the collegiate level, but it will not work in the NFL. Howell has the tendency to stare down receivers, which will result in turnovers at the next level. He also makes one too many bonehead mistakes:

Coaches at the next level will have to work with Howell relentlessly to keep his eyes up when pressured. And far too often he leaves himself prone to a big hit. Can he stay healthy with that style of play? I'm not sure.

Pro Comparisons 

Baker Mayfield 

Mitchell Trubisky 

Chase Daniel 

Grade: 3rd Round