3 reasons Sam Howell should be Commanders QB1 in 2024
By Dean Jones
There are reasons to suggest Sam Howell should be the Washington Commanders starting quarterback in 2024 under a new coaching regime.
It hasn't all been doom and gloom for the Washington Commanders this season. Perhaps their biggest bright spark up to now is Sam Howell, the unheralded quarterback tasked with finally providing some consistency under center after so many failed moves since Kirk Cousins left town.
Howell earned the starting job over Jacoby Brissett during the offseason, which wasn't entirely surprising. There have been some rough moments and obvious growing pains as expected, but he's steadily risen into one of the league's most impactful distributors within Eric Bieniemy's pass-heavy offense.
While this would normally point to the former fifth-round selection getting another year at least, the Commanders are about to embark on franchise-altering changes. These alterations have already begun and are likely to see head coach Ron Rivera and general manager Martin Mayhew relieved of their respective duties once the campaign concludes.
Even so, here are three reasons why Howell should be the Commanders' QB1 next season.
Sam Howell's growth
After looking like a rabbit in the headlights early in the season, Sam Howell has grown in multiple key areas. His decision-making is progressing well despite the odd blip, there's a lot to like about his pocket presence these days, and the quarterback is also learning how to fight another day from down to down behind a torrid offensive line.
These are all positive traits Howell can build upon. Eric Bieniemy and quarterbacks coach Tavita Pritchard deserve credit, but the player has that X-factor and ability to elevate his teammates normally associated with productive starting quarterbacks around the league.
Another offseason of development - perhaps under new coaches - might be enough for Howell to take his game up a notch in 2024. After so much turmoil at football's most pivotal position, the Washington Commanders cannot afford to pass up on such an opportunity.