Commanders News: Josh Harris, Jacoby Brissett, Kirk Cousins and Jack Del Rio

Commanders regret with Kirk Cousins?

The Washington Commanders are moving forward with Sam Howell as their starting quarterback in 2023. This is the latest in a series of big-time gambles at football's most important position as the franchise looks to finally find a genuine difference-maker under center.

This is something the Commanders haven't had for some time. Robert Griffin III provided electricity before injuries took over, with Kirk Cousins allowed to leave following two straight franchise tags after terms couldn't be reached on a new deal.

Washington's decision to let Cousins leave with only a compensatory pick in return was lambasted recently by Jay Gruden via John Keim of ESPN. The former coach was firmly of the belief he should have been retained at all costs and the Commanders have been paying for it ever since.

"Kirk’s age and what he’s done and how much he was improving, it was a no-brainer to keep him. If he didn’t want to come back, then you have to get something for him. This is a hot commodity. For us to get a conditional third is one of the worst things in the history of the NFL."

- Jay Gruden via ESPN

It's another indication of how poorly things were managed when Dan Snyder's influence was felt in football matters. That hasn't been the case for some time now, but things would certainly look a lot different had Washington extended Cousins long-term.