4 Commanders players Eric Bieniemy might want to keep in 2023

Taylor Heinicke – Commanders QB

Now that Eric Bieniemy is on board, the next big objective for the Washington Commanders is to figure out what the offensive coordinator wants in his quarterback. Ron Rivera stated that Sam Howell will likely start OTAs as the team’s No. 1 option, but nothing can be ruled out until after free agency and the 2023 NFL Draft.

According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, Bieniemy and other candidates were high on Howell during their interview process. The writer also added that he doesn’t expect the Commanders’ plans under center to alter all that much despite this high-profile appointment.

"“In the aftermath of the hiring of Eric Bieniemy to fill that role, a source with knowledge of the situation tells PFT that the strategy has not changed. Bieniemy, along with the other candidates for the job, were positive about the team’s offensive roster, including Howell. The main challenge for the coming season will be to repair and improve the offensive line.”"

What this means for Taylor Heinicke‘s future remains to be seen. The signal-caller brought life to the Commanders when coming in for Carson Wentz last season and might be a solid backup option under Bieniemy thanks to his elusiveness and ability to step in at a moment’s notice.

If the Commanders do move forward with Howell, then Bieniemy might want dependability behind the North Carolina product in case he cannot take advantage of what’s clearly an immense opportunity.  Examining the possibilities, Washington could do far worse than give Heinicke a short-term deal.