Commanders news: Sam Howell, Eric Bieniemy, Kliff Kingsbury and Chase Young
By Dean Jones
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.