3 ripple effects from Commanders benching Sam Howell for Jacoby Brissett
By Dean Jones
Commanders QB plans in 2024
As previously stated, the Washington Commanders genuinely thought they had found the right formula for football's most important position. Ron Rivera reveled in the notion Sam Howell was the long-term solution just a few weeks ago. After an indifferent run of form over the last month, the head coach has gone in a completely different direction.
Howell's got a cheap rookie contract, so building around this by spending big on other position groups was the best-case scenario. After failing to produce the goods in difficult circumstances, the chances of a new regime moving forward with the signal-caller appear remote.
The Commanders have an abundance of options at their disposal. They have enough salary-cap space to entice a productive veteran in free agency should they wish. They could also have a top-three selection in the 2024 NFL Draft to bring in someone like Drake Maye or Caleb Williams from the college ranks.
Those in power might also examine potential opportunities in the trade market if the right opportunity presents itself. Nothing should be off the table. As for Howell's future, it's not looking good.
Howell was failed by the Commanders. He was put under incredible pressure within a pass-heavy offensive scheme deployed by Eric Bieniemy. He also got no consistent protection from his offensive line. Unsurprisingly, his confidence waned almost past the point of no return as a result.
Which brings us to our next point...