The Seattle Seahawks have bolstered their quarterback depth by signing former Minnesota Vikings signal-caller Jaren Hall, just days after parting ways with playmaking QB PJ Walker. Hall is expected to serve as the Seahawks’ third quarterback, sitting behind starter Geno Smith and backup Sam Howell on the depth chart.
To accommodate Hall, the Seahawks released wide receiver Easop Winston Jr., known for his blazing 4.42-second 40-yard dash from his time at Washington State. Hall wasted no time joining his new team, being spotted at Seattle’s practice on September 2, only hours after the signing became official. His addition comes just in time as the Seahawks prepare for their Week 1 season opener against the Denver Broncos on Sunday, September 8.
New 3rd QB Jaren Hall (15) and starter Geno Smith throwing before #Seahawks practice today: they are wearing the silver helmets the team will be wearing Sunday with their 1990s, throwback royal-blue jerseys and silver pants for the opener vs the Broncos.
@thenewstribune pic.twitter.com/DUF2KVkTBd
— Gregg Bell (@gbellseattle) September 2, 2024
Hall, a fifth-round pick by the Vikings in 2023, had a brief but eventful rookie season after stepping in for Kirk Cousins following his season-ending ACL injury. Though Hall’s NFL stats are modest—168 passing yards and a 65% completion rate with no touchdowns and one interception over three games—his college career at BYU was far more impressive. Hall threw for 3,171 yards, 31 touchdowns, and six interceptions in 2022, while also contributing 350 rushing yards and three touchdowns. His ability to make plays with both his arm and legs helped him tally 34 total touchdowns in his final collegiate season.
Jaren Hall looked really good when he got into a rhythm. Nice seam ball here for N'Keal Harry.
You can see the TE vision with Harry. With him on the practice squad, hopefully he's able to continue to transform his game if he's able to stick on the ps throughout the season. pic.twitter.com/PYWYHVm2eD
— Matt Fries (@FriesFootball) August 28, 2024
NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein likened Hall to Raiders quarterback Gardner Minshew, noting his poise in the pocket, accuracy, and solid field command. Although his smaller frame and average arm strength limit his potential, Hall’s ability to thrive in a play-action-heavy offense could make him a reliable backup in the future.
With the Seahawks bringing Hall into the fold, the team’s quarterback room gains a versatile option that could prove valuable as the 2024 season unfolds.