10 underrated moves the Commanders made in 2023 offseason
By Dean Jones
Commanders hired Tavita Pritchard
The Washington Commanders are expecting big things from Sam Howell in 2023. Ron Rivera's giving him an incredible opportunity to become the team's long-term quarterback, which can hopefully provide a sense of stability that has been sorely missing over his three years at the helm so far.
Howell's come along gradually this offseason. But the presence of new quarterbacks coach Tavita Pritchard could be a hugely positive influence on the second-year-pro if the pair hit it off at camp.
Pritchard has worked with some accomplished signal-callers at the college ranks, playing a leading role in Andrew Luck's development among others. If he can help get a tune out of Howell, then bringing him on board will be a shrewd piece of business from Eric Bieniemy.
Commanders let Taylor Heinicke walk
Taylor Heinicke's rags-to-riches story with the Commanders officially came to an end in free agency. While there was a belief he'd be re-signed as a potential backup for Howell, the player and his representatives had other ideas.
Heinicke penned a deal with his hometown Atlanta Falcons, which was something the Commanders were right not to match. Washington managed to get themselves a veteran upgrade to work alongside Sam Howell in the form of Jacoby Brissett, who's dependable and provides the North Carolina product with a strong mentor despite also harboring ambitions of playing time.
This looks like a win-win for all parties. And the Commanders can move forward without Heinicke in the hope Howell can take the necessary leap forward.