Commanders QB Sam Howell under pressure
Sam Howell's position as the Washington Commanders' starting quarterback is a precarious one despite the optimism. Head coach Ron Rivera is placing a significant amount of faith in the former fifth-round pick, which is the latest in a series of gambles from the figurehead at football's most important position.
Rivera won't get another opportunity to pick a quarterback in Washington if Howell cannot meet expectations. That's a lot to put on Howell's shoulders considering his lack of experience, something that was reflected by Jeff Kerr of CBS Sports naming the North Carolina product as one of five NFC quarterbacks under the most pressure in 2023.
"If there's any quarterback who has a huge vote of confidence from his organization, it's Sam Howell. The Commanders have spoken glowingly about the 2022 fifth-round pick who has just one NFL start under his belt. Can Howell play? Outperforming Jalen Hurts, Dak Prescott, and Daniel Jones in the NFC East is no easy task -- even if the Commanders have a talented roster that can make the playoffs. Their playoff fate comes down to Howell, whom the Commanders believe will end their revolving rotation of quarterbacks (Washington has started 12 different quarterbacks since 2018, the most in the NFL). With an established offensive coordinator in Eric Bieniemy, Howell has to play well and win. Plenty of jobs in Washington rely on his performance."Jeff Kerr, CBS Sports
Howell should be under no illusions when it pertains to the challenges awaiting him with the Commanders. However, his quiet confidence coupled with Eric Bieniemy's progressive offensive thinking might be enough for the signal-caller to thrive.