4 major observations from Sam Howell's performance vs. the Dolphins in Week 13

Sam Howell's mentality

It would have been easy for Sam Howell to throw in the towel with the same defeatist mindset of most Washington Commanders defenders that took the field. But that's not how the quarterback is built.

Howell was always fighting. Always kept his eyes downfield in the face of concerted pressure. Always looked to make a big play when the result became a foregone conclusion.

Sadly, it wasn't enough to change the overall outcome. Howell looked like a one-man band most of the time - especially after the Commanders ruled running back Brian Robinson Jr. out with a hamstring injury - which was thanks in no small part to some established figures downing tools when some high character was needed.

This sort of mentality shouldn't go unnoticed when it's time to fully assess Howell at the end of 2023. His never-say-die attitude is something other players can feed off in better situations, which only enhances his chances of getting another look in 2024 with multiple upgrades around him.

That's still up in the air with Ron Rivera living on borrowed time. Howell is a keeper to many fans, but the temptation for Josh Harris' ownership group to take a quarterback prospect with what could be a top-three selection next spring means nothing should be off the table.

Howell went down swinging as the Commanders confirmed yet another losing season under Rivera. It's just a shame most of his teammates didn't have the same determination.