4 Commanders players that got extremely lucky during the 2023 offseason

Sam Howell - Commanders QB

Even though the Washington Commanders set their stall out early regarding their intentions with Sam Howell this offseason, many around the media believed it was a smokescreen. But after avoiding any major splashes in free agency, the 2023 NFL Draft, or the trade market, it appears as if Ron Rivera is going through on his promise.

The former fifth-round selection has little experience in a competitive NFL setting to call upon, which makes it a gamble. Howell did perform well in their season-ending finale against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 18, but whether he can keep this up for a full 17-game slate when competitive action resumes is another matter.

Howell flashed moments of brilliance throughout off-season workouts. There were also times of struggle, which was reflected in back-to-back interceptions during Washington's mandatory minicamp.

The fact Washington didn't spend big, make a daring attempt for Lamar Jackson or acquire someone like Will Levis and Hendon Hooker was a win for Howell. What's important is repaying this faith with stability and consistency that's been sorely lacking at the quarterback position throughout Rivera's tenure so far.

High stakes have enveloped the Commanders thanks to the pending introduction of Josh Harris' ownership group. Rivera is pushing his chips to the middle with Howell and how the North Carolina product performs will go a long way to determining his long-term future with the franchise.