Commanders News: Eric Bieniemy, Terry McLaurin, Sam Howell and power rankings

Which Washington Commanders news stories are hitting the headlines with the team beginning their extended period of bye week rest?

Speculation continues to rise regarding what comes for the Washington Commanders after the season. There are still four games to navigate, but the bye week is normally a time analysts and media members assess and reflect - which is not good news for head coach Ron Rivera with another losing season already confirmed.

As the players and coaches begin their long-awaited rest period, the stories causing debate include a potential head coaching job for Eric Bieniemy, a well-deserved distinction for wide receiver Terry McLaurin, Sam Howell's bright future, and where the Commanders stand in ESPN's power rankings after another defeat in Week 13.

Let's delve into each topic in more detail.

Commanders surprise Terry McLaurin with nomination

Terry McLaurin is a tremendous player. He's also a standout figure within the community, giving back whenever he can thanks to his fierce desire to assist those less fortunate.

McLaurin was given a surprise by the Washington Commanders - one he wasn't expecting based on his reaction. The wide receiver thought he was going for an interview with Santana Moss as part of his ongoing media commitments, only to find out he'd been nominated for this year's Walter Payton Man of the Year award.

This is a well-deserved honor for McLaurin. We wish him the best of luck as he goes for a coveted title that means more than most to players around the league.