Commanders News: Sam Howell, Michael Carter, Ron Rivera and Bill Belichick
By Dean Jones
Which Washington Commanders news stories are hitting the headlines as preparations gather pace for Week 11 versus the New York Giants?
As the Washington Commanders gear up for what looks to be a favorable matchup against the New York Giants this week, speculation is growing about the team's long-term future. That's of no concern to head coach Ron Rivera right now, who's taking things one game at a time and letting the chips fall where they may after that.
It's the right mindset to have, but it's not hard to see where this might be heading at 4-6 with a tough stretch of upcoming games before and after the bye week. Until then, the stores causing debate are Sam Howell's confidence, the Commanders missing out on Michael Carter, Percy Butler's potential, and Bill Belichick being tipped for Washington's head coaching gig in 2024.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Commanders miss out on Michael Carter
Perhaps surprisingly, Michael Carter was waived by the New York Jets earlier this week. But as expected, the demand for the explosive running back was high on the wire.
Carter was eventually awarded to the Arizona Cardinals, where he'll solidify a backfield that welcomed back star quarterback Kyler Murray last week. According to reports, the Commanders also put in a waiver claim, which would have reunited the player with his former North Carolina college teammate Sam Howell.
No team can ever have enough weapons. This one is especially intriguing given how well Brian Robinson Jr. and Antonio Gibson played last time at the Seattle Seahawks.
It's also a sign that the Commanders will remain aggressive in pursuit of progression. Things don't look especially promising, but those in power haven't given up the ghost just yet.