4 Commanders players who must hit the ground running at 2023 training camp
By Dean Jones
Sam Howell - Commanders QB
It was a positive opening to Sam Howell's time as QB1 during early off-season workouts. The Washington Commanders are betting big on their former fifth-round selection finally providing the offensive with an X-factor presence under center, which is further enhanced by the acquisition of play-caller Eric Bieniemy from the Kansas City Chiefs.
Howell had his moments of struggle, but there is a growing belief among coaches and his teammates that this was the right direction to go down. But head coach Ron Rivera was keen to point out via Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk there is plenty of room for growth before he takes the field in Week 1 against the Arizona Cardinals as expected.
"He’s young, we know he is young. There was a lot of room for growth, and we know that, but he’s got a good skillset. He’s mobile, he’s got good foot movement, he’s got quick twitch to him, good decision maker. He is still learning to make those decisions, but he’s also got the arm talent and that’s the thing that excites us."
- Ron Rivera via Pro Football Talk
The North Carolina product has taken charge of the huddle and knows the playbook well enough to ensure everyone is in their correct positions pre-snap. Going up against Washington's exceptional defensive unit daily at training camp won't be easy, but it should prepare him fully for what's to come when the real action arrives.
Howell has to come out of camp brimming with confidence. Otherwise, it's going to be a real problem.
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