Commanders News: Draft picks, Aaron Rodgers, Sam Howell and Week 13

What next for Commanders QB Sam Howell?

Sam Howell is one of the few positives to emerge from yet another season of underachievement for the Washington Commanders. The quarterback looks like someone who could potentially become a franchise presence under center, although much will depend on what the incoming coaching regime and new front-office figures think of his performance levels as part of their strategy.

This leaves Howell's future relatively uncertain despite some encouraging growth. But Lucas Johnson from NFL Spin Zone claimed the Commanders must build around the former fifth-round selection, providing him with better pieces to enable a proper evaluation of his skill set in 2024.

"Once a new head coach and front office get put into place, the franchise needs to build up the offensive line first and foremost to protect Howell. However, that doesn't mean that they shouldn't improve on the defensive end either. Now that the Washington Commanders have their quarterback of the future, the franchise should have three goals moving forward to build a winner around Howell. They need to clean house with both the front office and the coaching staff. Then they need to improve the offensive line and defensive secondary."

- Lucas Johnson, NFL Spin Zone

That seems like the most sensible outcome, especially with Howell's fifth-round rookie contract. However, nothing can be set in stone currently, so the North Carolina product must finish the campaign on a high over Washington's final five fixtures.