Which Washington Commanders news stories are hitting the headlines as fans gear up for this weekend's Super Bowl extravaganza?
Things are progressing rapidly as Dan Quinn looks to make a positive start to his first offseason as head coach. All eyes are currently on Las Vegas for the Super Bowl, but the Washington Commanders have had their eyes on the 2024 preparation period for some time after another underwhelming campaign under Ron Rivera.
Developments are ongoing and the rumor mill is swirling. Among the stories causing debate include Sam Howell's uncertain future, Eric Bieniemy's surprise visit, Chase Young's reflection ahead of his big night, and confidence in new offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Chase Young's reflection
After a rocky season and NFL career overall, defensive end Chase Young could end his 2023 campaign with a Super Bowl ring to show for his efforts. The Washington Commanders traded the former No. 2 overall selection for nothing more than a compensatory third-round pick rather than lose the edge presence for nothing. It's also clear things had become fractured between the organization and those in positions of power.
When asked about the midseason trade to the San Francisco 49ers before the deadline, Young took a philosophical approach based on comments via Clutch Points. The Ohio State product was just happy to be part of a winning organization. Something he hadn't experienced previously.
"It was interesting for me, just with the whole trade and all, but obviously, I'm very fortunate to come to one of the best organizations, if not the best, in the league."Chase Young via Clutch Points
Some envious glances will be cast in Young's direction if the Niners emerge victorious on Sunday. However, fans can relax safe in the knowledge there are better days ahead for the Commanders under their new power structure.
Commanders OC Kliff Kingsbury's strengths
Kliff Kingsbury's appointment as Washington Commanders offensive coordinator came with raised eyebrows and wild speculation about the future from media analysts and fans alike. The connection to USC prospect Caleb Williams aside, many wondered whether the play-caller deserved such an opportunity based on how things finished with the Arizona Cardinals and his less-than-stellar record at Texas Tech.
Confidence is high within the building that Washington has the right guy to lead their offense. Kingsbury's work with quarterbacks such as Patrick Mahomes and Kyler Murray will also be invaluable as the Commanders explore potential options at No. 2 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft.
When discussing what makes Kingsbury such an accomplished coach, Mahomes highlighted his ability to maximize strengths and allow a sense of freedom to flourish based on comments via Pro Football Talk.
"I think the biggest thing is, you see, with a lot of young quarterbacks is whenever they get to a coach, they kind of try to restrict them and kind of make them be this model of how the quarterback position is supposed to be played. And I think he was early in the game of just saying, ‘Hey, let’s maximize your strengths.’ He would teach me here and there how to be more mechanical and get in the pocket and the fundamentals of the game, but he never restricted who I was."Patrick Mahomes via Pro Football Talk
The Commanders have a big decision to make at No. 2 overall. There's a chance those in power make a bold trade-up for Caleb Williams, but all signs point to the Chicago Bears staying put. This leaves them with either Drake Maye or Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels.
Commanders QB Sam Howell's future
Sam Howell had to endure the rough with the smooth during his first season as Washington Commanders starting quarterback. There was too much pressure placed on the inexperienced signal-caller. Those in power also failed to provide the former fifth-round selection with an offensive line capable of keeping the pocket clean consistently. It was no surprise to see regression as a result.
Howell faces an uncertain future under the new regime. While his contract is cheap and he did flash moments of promise, the Commanders are in a strong position to take one of the better prospects emerging from the college ranks at No. 2 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Team writer Zach Selby acknowledged this is going to be the offseason's most important decision. There is a lot of hard work ahead with several prospects under consideration. The new power couple must also study the tape and see if Howell can be salvaged under offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury.
"It's the biggest question the Commanders need to answer this offseason. [Sam] Howell showed some promise as the starter in his second season, but with the team in position to possibly get a franchise player with second pick in the draft, resetting at quarterback is an option it must consider. Caleb Williams is considered the best prospect, although he's expected to be taken by the Chicago Bears, assuming they don't trade out of the No. 1 overall pick. However, this is also considered a deep class with players like Drake Maye, Jayden Daniels and Bo Nix all projected to be first-round picks. If [Adam] Peters and [Dan] Quinn do decide to take a quarterback, they'll spend the next few months weighing the advantages that each signal-caller presents."Zach Selby, Commanders.com
The chances of Howell being under center as Washington's primary quarterback option are slim. But there is some merit to keeping him around as a backup as insurance. Especially if the improved coaching staff gets a better tune from the North Carolina product.
Eric Bieniemy visits old friends
It seems as if Eric Bieniemy was well aware of his Washington Commanders' fate some time ago. The play-caller did get an interview for the team's vacant head coaching job, but all signs pointed to his association with the franchise ending sooner rather than later.
Bieniemy is looking for alternative employment after Dan Quinn made Kliff Kingsbury his new offensive coordinator. Speculation continues to rise surrounding a potential return to the Kansas City Chiefs. A recent revelation further fanned these flames.
According to Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid, they were treated to a visit from Bieniemy before their AFC championship showdown against the Baltimore Ravens. The respected coach spoke in front of the team and left a big impression based on the quarterback's comments via Sports Illustrated.
"It’s always great having EB in the building. Just being there, the energy that he brings, the mentality that he brings… He loves being a part of the team and being a part of that culture. Listening to him talk—I think guys had a little bit of chill bumps. Obviously he didn’t get that head coaching opportunity, but I’m excited for him to continue to coach football and continue to make his impact on the game."Patrick Mahomes via Sports Illustrated
Reid also came to Bieniemy's defense despite things not going according to plan in Washington. He could have a few offers in the not-too-distant future, but a return to Kansas City seems like the most realistic avenue of pursuit given his close association with the organization.