3 factors to tempt Eric Bieniemy during Commanders interview
By Dean Jones
Commanders have a clean slate at QB
Another thing that might tempt Eric Bieniemy is the quarterback situation. That might sound strange considering the current options, but it represents a chance for a blank slate to steer the Washington Commanders back into the postseason.
Taylor Heinicke is out of contract and might not return. The Commanders are also going to release Carson Wentz after an underwhelming campaign, which comes with $26.17 million in cap savings to spend elsewhere.
This leaves Washington moving forward with Sam Howell, who flashed briefly in Week 18 but was brought along slowly throughout his rookie season. Although head coach Ron Rivera claimed the former fifth-round pick would be atop the depth chart heading into OTAs, Bieniemy’s input will be vital in what other steps the team takes next.
Bieniemy’s proven track record of unearthing talent is respected. His work alongside Patrick Mahomes has played a role in the dynamic signal-caller becoming an all-time great after just seven seasons, which has also drawn significant praise from those within the Kansas City Chiefs.
Considering the multiple avenues Washington can go down, this could make a huge difference to Bieniemy. But much will also depend on how he perceives Howell’s talent with such a small NFL sample size to go off.