3 major priorities for the Commanders in 2023 free agency

Commanders must secure a veteran QB

While there are obvious benefits to Sam Howell becoming the starting quarterback long-term, finding a contingency plan for 2023 is absolutely essential for the Washington Commanders in free agency. Adding a veteran presence gives them a stable alternative and someone that can mentor the North Carolina product throughout a crucial second offseason.

This is a good landing spot for any free-agent quarterback. The Commanders represent a chance to legitimately compete for a starting job with the jury still out on Howell, who made a great first impression in Week 18 en route to a convincing victory over the Dallas Cowboys.

However, the former fifth-round pick has one career start under his belt, which is concerning. Ron Rivera stated during the NFL Scouting Combine that competition is coming, but much will also depend on what Eric Bieniemy wants under center after deciding to take his chances without Patrick Mahomes.

Good quarterbacks that produce consistently don’t tend to hit the free-agent market often. What the Commanders must do is find a guy that can get back to some form of their old selves under the expert guidance of Bieniemy.

Washington must act quickly and the prospect of Taylor Heinicke returning cannot be dismissed. Even if that represents a sideways step when the time to move forward has arrived.