Commanders News: Ron Rivera, Sam Howell, Nick Gates and training camp
By Dean Jones
Commanders QB Sam Howell's comparison
Sam Howell continues to cause significant debate among analysts and fans as he prepares to become the Washington Commanders' starting quarterback during the 2023 season. This is a significant responsibility considering the pressure for improvements under new ownership, but Ron Rivera and Eric Bieniemy clearly believe in the former fifth-round selection enough to give him a fair shake.
Howell's got talent, but there are also many unknowns to factor into this particular equation that shouldn't be overlooked. Primarily, can the North Carolina product produce the goods over a full 17-game season with only one full start under his belt?
When discussing Howell's prospects in 2023 recently, two unnamed analysts highlighted a similarity between Washington's signal-caller and Jordan Love via USA Today Sports, who is set to assume command under center for the Green Bay Packers after Aaron Rodgers was traded to the New York Jets.
"If Jordan Love is going to be the breakout player for the Green Bay Packers then Sam Howell has to be for the Washington Commanders. Both Love and Howell have only started one NFL game. They have that in common."
- Unnamed analyst via USA Today Sports
One could argue Howell has more pressure on his shoulders considering how many job statuses are in his hands. However, that does not detract from what a large task Love also has when he replaces a first-ballot Pro Football Hall of Famer in Rodgers.
How things work out for the young duo will come with severe ramifications.