3 Commanders who could see more action under Eric Bieniemy in 2023

Sam Howell – Commanders QB

Even though Ron Rivera stated recently that Sam Howell would go into OTAs as the team’s starting quarterback, hiring Eric Bieniemy cast fresh doubt about his prospects in 2023. However, a report from Mike Florio from Pro Football Talk could be seen as a vote of confidence in the signal-caller heading into his sophomore campaign.

Bieniemy walked away from the best in the business to go out on his own. The last thing he needs is a quarterback not living up to expectations – something that would no doubt jeopardize his hopes of becoming an NFL head coach.

And yet, according to Florio, the Washington Commanders will not deviate from their plan where Howell is concerned. This is down to Bieniemy’s positive outlook about the team’s options on offense, including the former fifth-round pick’s potential as a No. 1.

"“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.”"

Bieniemy becoming the assistant head coach/offensive coordinator instantly sends Howell’s stock through the roof. How the one-time North Carolina stud performs under such a bright offensive mind will be critical to Washington’s hopes of making an instant playoff return.