In a surprising move, the Washington Commanders traded quarterback Howell, their 2022 fourth-round pick, to the Hawks on Thursday. This trade not only shook up the teams involved but also raised questions about the upcoming draft and Seattle's search for a future quarterback.

The trade saw Howell, along with fourth- and sixth-round picks, being exchanged for third- and fourth-round picks. With the Hawks already having Geno Smith as their starter, general manager John Schneider confirmed that Smith will remain the team's starting quarterback.

Schneider's decision to acquire Howell seems to have implications for the upcoming draft as well. Reports suggest that the Hawks had been actively scouting quarterbacks and were potentially looking to select their future QB in the draft. However, with this trade, it appears that Schneider may have shifted his focus away from the top four quarterbacks in the draft.

During a recent conversation on Seattle Sports, Brock Huard and Mike Salk discussed the connection between this trade and the draft. Huard agreed with Salk's belief that this trade signifies the end of the Hawks' pursuit of the first four quarterbacks in the draft.

Salk further speculated that Schneider's decision might have been influenced by the lack of resources and uncertainties surrounding the top quarterback prospects. They mentioned that Michigan's J.J. McCarthy seemed to be rising in draft boards, making it challenging for the Hawks to secure one of the top quarterbacks. Huard added that the team probably never considered Oregon's Bo Nix or Washington's Michael Penix Jr. with their 16th overall pick, keeping in mind their roster needs.

Both Huard and Salk compared this trade to a similar situation back in 2010 when the Seahawks had an established starter in Matt Hasselbeck and traded for Charlie Whitehurst. They saw this move as a way for the team to keep searching for the right combination at the quarterback position.

The long-term implications of this trade remain uncertain. While Huard believes Howell has the potential to become a starter, he acknowledges that it is unclear if he will develop into a long-term solution. Howell's playing style, marked by his movement and willingness to push the ball downfield, aligns well with the Seahawks' offensive system.

Salk believes that if Geno Smith has a bad day, there will be calls for Howell to take over as the starter due to his upside and potential. Salk even mentioned that Howell has more potential than recent backup quarterbacks Drew Lock and that fans might quickly clamor for him to take the field.

Huard drew comparisons between Howell and Baker Mayfield, noting their similar postures, body types, and occasional over-aggressiveness. Although there are similarities, it is uncertain if Howell can replicate Mayfield's success.

The trade of Howell to the Hawks has undoubtedly impacted the draft plans for both teams. It has shifted the focus for the Seahawks, potentially eliminating their pursuit of the top quarterbacks. As for Howell, he now has the opportunity to develop his skills with the Hawks and potentially make an impact down the line. Only time will tell if this trade proves to be a beneficial move for both sides.