One other thing I'd point out: Brees regressed in his second season as starter. This can be a perfectly normal career trajectory. It's just the quick success of a few guys has shortened the window people are willing to evaluate a QB. It'd be one thing if Howell was a complete dumpster fire like Zach Wilson has been. But he has had some good moments. It's worth something, anyway.
Also, because some idiot here will no doubt accuse me of saying Sam Howell is as good as Drew Brees, no, I'm not saying that, I never said that, and you know it. I just think Howell has potential to be more than a career backup.