3 things Commanders fans can look forward to at 2023 training camp

Sam Howell's first padded practices as Commanders QB1

There is growing confidence within the Washington Commanders that they might have something special with Sam Howell as their starting quarterback. Ron Rivera has always declared supreme faith in the former fifth-round selection - which was matched by Eric Bieniemy upon his arrival - something that's also transitioned across to teammates after a decent enough opening to offseason workouts.

Howell isn't the most flamboyant signal-caller that's ever graced an NFL field. But he boasts a level of assurance that exudes confidence and hasn't gone unnoticed by players and coaches alike.

Of course, this was just the first step. Howell must turn things up a notch when the time comes for his first padded practices as Washington's new QB1 at training camp.

Make no mistake, this is going to be a brutal few weeks for Howell. The Commanders' elite-level defense will be doing him no favors whatsoever and although things might get rough on occasion, coming out on the other side with some positive momentum will be the biggest confidence boost imaginable.

Bieniemy and Tavita Pritchard will be in Howell's ear constantly. Jacoby Brissett can also be an assured presence for the one-time North Carolina star despite having starting ambitions of his own.

Watching Howell's evolution throughout camp will be interesting. The outcomes are likely to define Washington's campaign in 2023.