4 major factors that could jeopardize Commanders playoff hopes in 2023
By Dean Jones
Commanders don’t improve at QB
After the trade for Carson Wentz went horribly wrong – which wasn’t a surprise to many – the Washington Commanders were forced to start almost from scratch at the quarterback position once again this offseason. Not exactly ideal, but the team now has two intriguing options that can hopefully provide an increase in stability.
There’s every chance Sam Howell can emerge into a long-term starter if he takes advantage of the huge opportunity awaiting him this offseason. The former fifth-round pick was a bystander for most of his rookie campaign, but an encouraging showing in Week 18 against the Dallas Cowboys indicates more could be on the way.
To cover his bases, Ron Rivera brought in Jacoby Brissett in free agency after Taylor Heinicke left for the Atlanta Falcons. The veteran performed adequately for the Cleveland Browns until Deshaun Watson came back from suspension, so he’ll fancy his chances of beating out Howell to the No. 1 job this summer.
Rivera stated it would be a genuine competition and the best player will start. Something the head coach is likely betting his job on with the prospect of new owners coming into the fold beforehand.
The potential is there and Eric Bieniemy’s arrival should also improve the offense greatly. But if the two aforementioned signal-callers fluff their lines, the consequences will be severe.