During Day 2 of the 2025 NFL Draft, the Seahawks selected Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe 92nd overall, who could test Darnold for his spot, much like J.J. McCarthy would have had Darnold re-signed with the Vikings.

According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the Vikings got Howell for a pick swap, as they sent the No. 142 overall pick in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL draft to the Seahawks for Howell and the No. 172 overall pick in the fifth round.

Instead of releasing Howell, the Seahawks were able to get some draft compensation for him. They moved up 30 spots in the fifth round to select defensive lineman Rylie Mills out of Notre Dame. Mills might not be a starter in 2025, but Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald was clearly eyeing him, which would explain why Seattle made the trade up to get him.