Commanders news: Logan Thomas, Sam Howell, Terry McLaurin and draft joy

Which Washington Commanders news stories are hitting the headlines after their expected home loss to the San Francisco 49ers?

The Washington Commanders put up more of a fight than many anticipated versus the San Francisco 49ers. It didn't prevent another defeat, with the same old mistakes and lack of execution in key areas proving to be their undoing in front of a sea of Niners red occupying the stands at FedEx Field.

One game remains for the Commanders before a dramatic offseason arrives. In the aftermath of another reverse, the stories causing debate include Logan Thomas' reflection, Sam Howell's regret, Terry McLaurin's envy, and Washington's draft joy.

Let's delve into each topic in more detail.

Commanders surge up 2024 draft order

It wasn't all bad for the Washington Commanders on Sunday. Their loss to the San Francisco 49ers coupled with the Arizona Cardinals pulling off a shock victory over the Philadelphia Eagles propelled them to No. 2 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft.

It's neck and neck with the New England Patriots - especially looking at the strength of schedule numbers. Losing against the Dallas Cowboys next weekend could seal the deal. Something that might also completely shift their offseason approach.

This puts the Commanders in a prime position to select either of the top two quarterback prospects. While it does nothing to sure up the woeful offensive line, passing on Caleb Williams or Drake Maye under a new regime doesn't seem likely looking at how things have unfolded for Sam Howell in recent weeks.

If there was one reason for optimism, it's how well-positioned the Commanders are this offseason.

Logan Thomas' reflection

There is a sense of going through the motions across the Washington Commanders as everyone waits for what comes next. It doesn't take a genius to figure out that huge alterations to the staffing infrastructure are coming once the campaign finishes. This will have a ripple effect on the playing side of things once the new hires have been confirmed.

This is not going unnoticed by those within the locker room. Tight end Logan Thomas is planning to savor the moment of Washington's season finale against the Dallas Cowboys at FedEx Field based on comments via Ben Standig of The Athletic. After that, it's a case of wait-and-see regarding his future.

"I'm just trying to enjoy the time with my guys in this locker room … Just cherish it because it's going to be completely different next year when it rolls around."

Logan Thomas via X/Twitter

Thomas has one year remaining on his deal and looks like a prime salary-cap cut candidate. Much will depend on how the new coaching staff and front office see things, but the $6.56 million in savings attached to his early release is a tempting proposition for a rebuilding organization.

It's all part of the NFL's cutthroat business-first approach. Thomas is a dependable veteran and leader. That should be enough to find alternative employment if the Commanders end up cutting ties.

Commanders QB Sam Howell's positives

It seemed as if the old Sam Howell had turned up to play in the first half. He looked assured in the face of high-class opposition. The quarterback made some jaw-dropping throws. He benefitted greatly from a more balanced approach schematically.

When the game began to get away from the Washington Commanders, that's when the problems surfaced. Howell was tasked with forcing the issue. This came with two more interceptions in quick succession to cast further doubt on his chances of becoming the team's starting signal-caller under the new regime.

This was a sentiment echoed by Ron Rivera. While he acknowledged no decision had been made about the starting quarterback in Week 18 - which is going to be his last at the helm according to multiple reports - the head coach highlighted how impressive Howell looked during the initial exchanges versus the San Francisco 49ers as a positive.

"Early on when things were balanced, it was one of those things that the situation gave him an opportunity and he performed. He really did. I thought he made some good decisions, threw some really good balls."

Ron Rivera via X/Twitter

At this point, there doesn't seem much point in Jacoby Brissett starting the final game, no matter how much Rivera wants to end on a high. The Commanders have too much at stake - the No. 2 overall pick to be precise. Howell deserves to see out the season after leaving everything on the line in difficult circumstances.

Commanders WR Terry McLaurin's envy

There aren't many Washington Commanders players who've enjoyed any semblance of prolonged success. This bears more significance to those drafted by the organization in recent years. Hopefully, this can change with Josh Harris' ownership group looking to make the changes needed to progress, which provides a level of comfort and excitement that simply wasn't evident previously.

Still, it's frustrating for the likes of wide receiver Terry McLaurin. The Pro Bowler was one of the few bright spots in Week 17. However, he was casting envious glances to the opposite sideline thanks to their stable structure and potential to go deep into the playoffs based on comments via Clutch Points.

"You want to be a part of something that's sustainable and you're winning completely at a high level. They've got a great staff. They've got great players. You can tell they love playing together. You see why they have the success that they do. You got to give them credit for building that team and for the players going out there and executing. Hopefully I can be a part of something like that, but I'm just focused on myself, my world and my journey and I'm going to keep working to be the best player I can be."

Terry McLaurin via Clutch Points

McLaurin just needs to ride out the storm and hope those in power can make the hard decisions needed to get the Commanders off the canvas and into postseason consideration. Things are going to look a lot different by the time OTAs get here, but the former third-round pick out of Ohio State should remain a constant.