Commanders News: Dan Snyder, Terry McLaurin, Sam Howell and playoff hopes

Which Washington Commanders' news stories are hitting the headlines as we move 12 days away from the team's falling into the hands of Josh Harris' group?

Good morning, Washington Commanders fans. The anticipation continues to build ahead of training camp and the franchise sale getting approved, with a little under two weeks remaining until the landmark event occurs to rid the organization of a dark cloud that's only grown larger over the last few years.

Until then, the news and rumors never seem to stop. Among the stories causing debate recently include Sam Howell receiving praise, a potential playoff place in 2023, what next for outgoing owner Dan Snyder, and Terry McLaurin's importance during the upcoming campaign.

Let's delve into each topic in more detail.

Commanders QB Sam Howell praised

Sam Howell's status as the team's No. 1 quarterback seems cemented heading into Week 1 against the Arizona Cardinals. There is still the small matter of training camp upcoming, but all signs point to the former fifth-round pick being under center to begin a make-or-break campaign for the Washington Commanders and head coach Ron Rivera.

Howell has a fan in former signal-caller and current ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky, who deciphered some plays during his Week 18 clash against the Dallas Cowboys. This was his only start as a rookie, but the Commanders obviously saw enough to increase confidence in his chances of assuming the role long-term.

This is a big gamble from Rivera, there's no getting away from that. And if this bold decision pays off when competitive games arrive, it might just come with an extended stay under the new ownership team led by Josh Harris.