The names of Trinity Rodman, Mallory Swanson, and the Thompson sisters will dominate the discussion among the USWNT stars for next summer's World Cup. There are, however, several other bubble players who will be looking to earn a spot on the roster.
Head coach Emma Hayes has many decisions to make about who will be invited to represent the United States. One player just earned another cap for the national team on Oct. 13.
Jaelin Howell made her seventh National Team appearance since 2020.
The midfielder is one of the bubble players who is looking to distinguish herself at both camps and on the NWSL stage. She is a strong player in the league, having played for Racing Louisville FC, Seattle Reign, and Gotham FC. Howell has demonstrated star power and was one of the premier players on Racing Louisville's roster during the team's early seasons, being named captain in 2023. She has also scored four goals since joining Gotham in 2025. Her NWSL resume is impressive.
However, she seems to have been lost in the shuffle in the deep talent pool at the midfield position for the United States. She has played well but has not done enough to become a key factor on the national stage. In fact, at the most recent camp that led to a cap, she was a replacement for an injured Sam Coffey. But her appearance and invite could be important for her to have momentum into 2027.
Howell and other players need to find a way to separate themselves from the pack. She played 30 minutes on Tuesday and was a part of a solid midfield that helped the team salvage a 2-2 draw against Spain. The women went down 2-0, and without solid play from everyone involved, they may not have been able to tie the game. Howell was able to adjust to what Spain was bringing on the pitch.
Jaelin Howell and Michelle Cooper deserve more USWNT minutes. Give it to me Emma pic.twitter.com/RRGbAqKLag
— Samantha Dudley (@InspiredByJM) October 14, 2026
Her performance may force Head Coach Emma Hayes to recall her again for the camp for the CONCACAF W Championship Quarterfinals. Getting called up and playing well on the championship stage could lead to the next camp after that. Her continued edge with Gotham FC could also be a key to staying on Hayes' radar. She will need to continue to be a star on the club stage if she wishes to earn a spot next summer. She is a top midfielder, but more is needed for her to play in the World Cup.
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