Commanders News: Sam Howell, elevations, Bill Belichick and Week 11

Sam Howell heading in the right direction

Sam Howell heads into Sunday's game riding on the crest of a wave. The quarterback looks like he could be the franchise presence under center the Washington Commanders have craved for some time - something that head coach Ron Rivera is hanging his hat on in pursuit of getting a reprieve from Josh Harris' ownership group in 2024.

When discussing Howell's growth, assistant head coach/offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy remains impressed based on comments via Sports Illustrated. The respected play-caller added that if the former fifth-round pick maintains his current mindset, big things could be in his future.

"Every day, I'm more impressed by the person, I'm impressed by the kid. My job is to make sure I'm living in this moment. I can't tell you what's going to take place down the line, but I do know this: the kid has the work ethic. He has the attitude and the mindset that's taken him in the right direction. He just needs to stay who he is, remain who he is, humble, a hardworking kid that doesn't take anything for granted, that understands that every little thing that he learns is by far the most important to help him to be the best player and person that he can be on the field and off the field. So I think if he's utilizing this same work ethic and his family values, he'll be all right when it's all said and done with."

- Eric Bieniemy via Sports Illustrated

The North Carolina product has a good chance to further cement his status as Washington's long-term quarterback against the New York Giants. Although Howell needs to be fully aware of what's transpiring pre-snap with defensive coordinator Wink Martindale likely to conjure up some exotic blitz packages as part of his ultra-aggressive approach.