4 Commanders players with soaring stock after Ravens joint practices

Sam Howell - Commanders QB

There's no denying that Sam Howell is coming of age. The quarterback seems to be growing in confidence as he looks to become the franchise quarterback desperately needed by the Washington Commanders during a crossroads campaign for the franchise in 2023.

Howell took a little time to get going through early workouts. Going against such an elite defense doesn't exactly bring about supreme consistency on an every-down basis, either.

However, the signal-caller has developed gradually, is taking on every piece of information from Eric Bieniemy and Tavita Pritchard, and has earned the trust of teammates in double-quick time.

If any Commanders fans needed extra reassurance that Howell was the man to lead them next season, one only has to examine his production during joint practices with the Baltimore Ravens. The former fifth-round pick demonstrated all the qualities needed in front of an outstanding defense, outperforming NFL MVP Lamar Jackson and conjuring up some magical plays that only very few around the league are capable of.

This wasn't enough for Ron Rivera to officially name Howell as the Commanders' QB1. But this competition with Jacoby Brissett - if there ever was one legitimately, to begin with - is all over after this impressive outing.

Moving forward with Howell remains a contentious decision. But who knows, the Commanders might be onto something.