I look for consistency with their tenure as college QB's. Howell would have been a first round pick last year as well, similar to how Herbert went back and was still a first rounder. He's a gamer. Pickett is a few years older and has gotten better but, as noted, he would have been a late rounder last year if he was drafted.
Having said that, he does look good this year and I wouldn't be upset with him as our horse going forward but I stand by Howell. I think Howell, given some of the offensive talent we have, will be a rockstar.