4 Commanders who’ll benefit most from Eric Bieniemy’s arrival as OC

Sam Howell – Commanders QB

This is obviously dependent on whether Eric Bieniemy thinks Sam Howell is the guy. As it stands right now, the young quarterback is sitting atop the depth chart and could take the biggest surge imaginable in 2023.

Howell showed he has the talent, even if was a brief glimpse in Week 18 when he led the Washington Commanders to victory over the Dallas Cowboys. This warrants a more prolonged look during the preparation period if nothing else and Bieniemy will be crucial in his development heading into an important sophomore campaign.

There is a strong chance extra competition comes into the mix with Carson Wentz’s pending release and Taylor Heinicke looking for a new deal. But this should not detract from how optimistic fans should be about Howell and Bieniemy linking up.

For all the questions surrounding Bieniemy as a potential head coach, his influence on Patrick Mahomes during the quarterback’s rise to superstardom cannot be understated. If the offensive coordinator has half the same effect on Howell, the Commanders could make an instant postseason return next time around.

Bieniemy’s appointment is a major coup by the Commanders. One that brings fresh hope they can emerge from the shadows and into contention despite the increased competitiveness within the NFC East.

Howell has a big role to play, one suspects. But getting off on the right foot with Bieniemy is of paramount importance.