Which Washington Commanders news stories are hitting the headlines as preparations continue for their Week 17 game against the San Francisco 49ers?
There is never a dull moment when it comes to the Washington Commanders. Plenty of headlines emerged from a dramatic Wednesday after head coach Ron Rivera made yet another change at the quarterback position heading into the team's Week 17 game against the Sam Francisco 49ers at FedEx Field.
Such a big development meant there was a lot to unpack. Among the stories causing fierce debate include Sam Howell's reflection, Rivera's reasoning, Jacoby Brissett's mindset, and wide receiver Terry McLaurin playing the role of motivator amid yet more offensive alterations.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Commanders make QB change
After Sam Howell was benched for the second straight game in Week 16 at the New York Jets - coupled with how well Jacoby Brissett performed - it didn't take a genius to figure out what was coming. Ron Rivera made the decision official on Wednesday, naming the veteran as his starter this weekend and demoting the former fifth-round selection.
When outlining the reasoning behind the switch with just two games remaining, Rivera claimed this was still about keeping the bigger picture in mind for Howell based on comments via the team's website. Even if this is a disastrous turn of events for the signal-caller in pursuit of getting another look as QB1 under a new regime in 2024.
"I think this is probably a good opportunity for Sam to take a break. This is about Sam's continued development and things hadn't gone as well as we'd like for him the last few weeks. We just think this is a good opportunity for him to watch."Ron Rivera via Commanders.com
Rivera added that the punishment Howell endured throughout the campaign is another reason why he's been taken out of the firing line. While admirable, it only highlights his complete mismanagement of the quarterback spot and the lack of priority given to the Washington Commanders offensive line. Just two reasons that suggest a change in approach is almost guaranteed.
Commanders WR Terry McLaurin providing support
Nobody thought it would end this way for Sam Howell. It was only a few short weeks ago that Ron Rivera proudly proclaimed the Washington Commanders had finally found their long-term quarterback. Someone they could build around on a cheap contract in the hopes of returning to contention.
Now, the player's future is bleaker than ever. Especially considering the Commanders are projected to have a top-three selection in the 2024 NFL Draft to select one of the top college prospects set to take their chances at the next level.
Howell can lean on a strong support system within the locker room during this difficult time. Judging by wide receiver Terry McLaurin's comments via Sports Illustrated, he's keen to assist the former North Carolina star and keep him uplifted as he deals with such a significant setback.
"I haven’t talked about his confidence, him and I, just more so me encouraging him. Letting him know that I got his back, and I know he appreciates that. It’s been tough for him, it’s been a tough year for all of us, and I still believe in the ability that he has. He’s shown a lot of great things this year, and if he is back out there next week, we’re going to keep chopping the wood and try to help him out as much as we can. You know, it’s kind of hard for me to speak for his confidence, but I try to do the best I can to keep him uplifted."Terry McLaurin via Sports Illustrated
McLaurin is one of the team's alphas and veteran leaders. There's only so much he can do, but the Pro Bowler's presence and advice could make all the difference for Howell amid the uncertainty.
Commanders QB Sam Howell's mindset
One could forgive Sam Howell for feeling a little despondent. He's undergone severe hardship this season. Some of it is his doing, while some blame can also be placed on the pass-heavy scheme and the complete lack of protection from the Washington Commanders offensive line.
Howell's recent regression couldn't have come at a worse time. There is incredible uncertainty surrounding the Commanders heading into an offseason of great change. Getting benched isn't the best look before a new head coach and front office infrastructure come into the fold once the campaign concludes.
The former fifth-round selection took everything in his stride once the news was confirmed. Howell is also keen to keep being a good teammate and making the strides needed to progress over the next fortnight based on comments via Washington's website.
"Obviously, [it was] disappointing, it is what it is. I think at the end of the day, I just gotta play better. I'm just gonna try to do whatever I can, continue to get better these last two weeks and try to learn as much as I can while watching Jacoby play, support him and try to be a good teammate."Sam Howell via Commanders.com
Howell has flashed moments of real quality this season. The highs have been sensational. Unfortunately for the signal-caller and the Commanders, there's been very little of that on tape over the last month. Getting benched is the latest bump during a rollercoaster first season as a starting NFL quarterback.
Commanders QB Jacoby Brissett's focus
Jacoby Brissett waited a long time for his opportunity this season. The veteran free-agent signing played the role of mentor to Sam Howell after it was clear from early out he would be the starting quarterback. Something he plans to continue despite being given the keys to the Washington Commanders offense in Week 17 against the San Francisco 49ers.
Brissett's handled himself impeccably on and off the field. This was the only viable course of action after performing so well. But the challenges awaiting the former third-round pick cannot be overstated versus one of the league's best defensive units.
When discussing what comes next, Brissett is ready and willing to take on the test with his customary determination and professionalism based on comments via The Mercury News. Whether it'll be enough is the big question.
"It’s going to be a challenge, for sure, but I’m up for the challenge. I wouldn’t be in this situation if I didn’t think I could handle it."Jacoby Brissett via The Mercury News
The Niners will be looking to put things right after suffering a Christmas Day embarrassment against the Baltimore Ravens. That's bad news for the Commanders, although most fans would probably welcome losing the next two games to maintain their high draft pick.
That won't matter to Brissett. His primary focus will be to be consistent. Something that will enhance his hopes of getting plenty of interest when it's time for the player to hit free agency once again next spring.