3 Commanders role players to benefit most from Sam Howell as QB1 in 2023
By Dean Jones
Which Washington Commanders players stand to benefit most from Sam Howell becoming the team's new starting quarterback in 2023?
Ron Rivera is a man of his word. The head coach stated earlier in the offseason that Sam Howell would be given a legitimate chance to become the Washington Commanders' starting quarterback next season and beyond, which looks to be the case with free agency and the 2023 NFL Draft firmly in the rearview mirror.
The Commanders did bring in veteran Jacoby Brissett on a one-year deal worth $8.5 million. This is decent money for a backup, but he might harbor bigger ambitions than that after playing well for the Cleveland Browns last season.
Brissett winning the job cannot be ruled out and Rivera stated it would be a genuine competition between the two quarterbacks in camp. However, all signs point to Howell taking charge under center in Year 2 of his professional career.
With this in mind, here are three Commanders players who stand to benefit most from Howell as QB1 next season.
Player No. 1
Armani Rogers - Commanders TE
Getting improved pass-catching consistency from the tight end position is an absolute must for the Washington Commanders in 2023. After failing to reinforce their options throughout the offseason, it might indicate a level of confidence in the young projects taking significant strides forward under Eric Bieniemy's guidance.
Among these is Armani Rogers, who has the physical profile and athleticism normally associated with productive tight ends at the next level. There isn't a lot to back up this notion with just five receptions for 64 receiving yards last season, but his previous chemistry with Sam Howell throughout practice in 2022 should serve him well.