Commanders News: Ron Rivera, Chris Cooley, Logan Thomas and Sam Howell
By Dean Jones
Commanders QB Sam Howell's protection
As previously stated, quarterback Sam Howell's performance was one of the shining lights to emerge from another poor result for the Washington Commanders. He was tasked with significant responsibilities after the break as the team looked to fight their way back from a 27-3 deficit, which fell short despite an impressive effort from the former fifth-round selection.
Howell is demonstrating the traits normally associated with NFL starting quarterbacks. However, the offensive line isn't doing him any favors whatsoever - something that's concerning left tackle Charles Leno Jr. based on his comments via USA Today Sports.
"Yeah, I actually am worried, especially late in the game, when the game’s already out of hand. I feel like that shouldn’t happen. We should take a different route in that aspect. But that’s what the coaches want, and they want to show fight. We want to show fight and want to put some points on the board and show that we’re not quitting for anybody. But there does need to be a little bit of smarts in that. We need him for the whole season, not just for a game that’s out of hand already, in my opinion."
- Charles Leno Jr. via USA Today Sports
Not addressing the protection effectively this offseason looks to be coming back to haunt the Commanders already. The last thing Howell needs is to take such punishment on a weekly basis, so big adjustments are needed in the coming weeks.
Otherwise, it's hard to envisage a scenario where Howell can last for a full 17-game campaign. And that is a real problem.