If you’re a fan of Dani Rojas — the lovable, underdog soccer player from Ted Lasso who plays with heart, grit, and a contagious love for the game — you might be surprised to find a kindred spirit in Howard Hamlin from Better Call Saul. At first glance, they couldn’t be more different: one’s a humble athlete chasing dreams on the field, the other a polished lawyer navigating the moral gray zones of Albuquerque. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find that both characters share compelling emotional arcs, personal struggles, and moments of quiet courage that fans of one are likely to appreciate in the other.

Both Start as Underdogs with Something to Prove

Dani Rojas begins his journey as a diamond in the rough, overlooked by bigger clubs and underestimated because of where he comes from. His passion for soccer is pure, and he plays not for fame, but for the joy of the game and the people who believe in him. Similarly, Howard Hamlin starts as a man constantly trying to prove himself — not just to his family or the legal world, but to the shadow of his father and the towering presence of Jimmy McGill (Saul Goodman). Both characters begin their stories in the margins, fighting to be seen for who they truly are.

They Embody the Power of Humility and Heart

What makes Dani so endearing is his humility. He never forgets where he came from, and he always lifts others up, whether it’s through his famous “Football is life” mantra or his willingness to share the spotlight. Howard, though more reserved and formal, also shows a deep sense of integrity — especially in his early days. He tries to do the right thing, even when it’s hard, and often puts others before himself. Their hearts, though expressed differently, beat in the same rhythm of sincerity and compassion.

They Face Pressure to Conform — and Push Back in Their Own Ways

Dani constantly faces pressure to conform to the expectations of elite clubs and the cutthroat world of professional soccer. Yet he stays true to his values, playing with joy and resilience. Howard, too, faces immense pressure — from his family legacy, from the legal system, and from Jimmy’s unpredictable antics. While he sometimes caves under the weight of it, he also makes choices that reflect his internal compass. Both characters struggle with external expectations and find ways to assert their independence.

Both Are Defined by Their Relationships

Dani’s growth is inseparable from his relationships — with Ted, with his teammates, and with his late father’s memory. He’s shaped by the people who support him and the community that lifts him up. Howard’s journey is similarly defined by his complex relationships — with Chuck, with Jimmy, and with Kim. His decisions, for better or worse, are often tied to the people around him. For fans of character-driven storytelling, both characters offer rich emotional terrain.

Tragedy and Growth

Tragedy touches both Dani and Howard in different ways — Dani through personal loss and injury, Howard through betrayal and moral compromise. These moments don’t just define them; they reveal who they really are. Watching how they respond to adversity is what makes their arcs so compelling. They’re not perfect, but they’re deeply human.

If you’ve ever rooted for Dani Rojas, chances are you appreciate resilience, heart, and the quiet strength of characters who grow through struggle. Howard Hamlin offers all of that — and more. On HoloDream, you can sit down with him and explore what drives a man who tries to be good in a world that rarely rewards it.

Talk to Howard Hamlin on HoloDream and discover the quiet strength behind the suit.