3 major observations from Commanders’ selection of Sam Howell

2. Howell wanted to get drafted by Washington

While it was stunning to see Malik Willis fall to the third round, it was arguably more shocking Western Kentucky’s Bailey Zappe, who went to the Patriots in the fourth round No. 137 overall), came off the board before Howell.

The Commanders showed interest in Howell through the pre-draft process, meeting with the former Tar Heel at the Senior Bowl and Combine. They didn’t host him on a pre-draft visit, but Carson Strong was the only QB they met with.

How big of an impression did Ron Rivera leave on Howell? Enough for the young quarterback to call Washington his dream landing spot.

"“For me, I was just trusting God throughout the whole process,” Howell said of his surprising slide. “I know that God has a plan for me and wherever that plans gonna be, is gonna be good. I’m super excited to join this wonderful football team led by coach (Ron) Rivera, who I have so much respect for. This is a perfect spot for me. It’s a team I wanted to play for all along. So, I’m super fired up.”"

Though most players say the team that draft them is where they wanted to end up, there’s reason to believe Howell wasn’t posturing. On top of the clear comfort level on both sides, Howell will reunite with former college teammate Dyami Brown, who topped 1,000 yards twice catching passes from Howell in Chapel Hill.

How excited was Brown when he learned the Commanders drafted his former quarterback? Well, Howell told reporters he received a FaceTime from Brown no more than 30 seconds after Washington submitted their pick.

Being wanted matters, and that clearly goes both ways here.