3 things to expect from Sam Howell as Commanders QB1 in 2023

Expect outstanding mobility from Sam Howell

Sam Howell was an exceptional pocket passer during his time at North Carolina in college. But once he lost Dyami Brown, Dazz Newsome, Javonte Williams, and Michael Carter to the 2021 NFL Draft, he was forced to go a different route in pursuit of keeping the chains moving.

With no genuine weapons to call upon aside from Josh Downs, the signal-caller was constantly forced to demonstrate his escapability out of the pocket. This was better than many people initially thought and came with substantial yardage on the ground along the way.

Howell rushed for 828 yards and 11 touchdowns during his final season with the Tar Heels. Despite this representing another string to his impressive bow, the league didn't share the same view as those within the program as he dropped alarmingly into the fifth round.

Their loss could be the Washington Commanders' gain in the short and long term. Howell's main task will be getting the football into the hands of his primary playmakers, but Eric Bieniemy will have no trouble calling run-specific plays for his new quarterback when the situation dictates.

One should also expect to see plenty of run/pass option concepts - something Howell became extremely familiar with at the collegiate level. The options are endless with a dual-threat weapon and Bieniemy's creativity is sure to maximize every took at the player's disposal.