Commanders News: Sam Howell, Montez Sweat, Ron Rivera and Doug Williams

Commaders QB Sam Howell's breakout

Sam Howell's start to the campaign has been sensational. The Washington Commanders couldn't have asked more from their second-year quarterback, whose poise in the pocket and ability to come through in clutch situations defies his tender age.

A big challenge awaits this weekend as he goes toe-to-toe with Josh Allen - one of the league's brightest young stars at the position. Leading up to the clash, the former fifth-round selection got a big confidence boost from Bucky Brooks of FOX Sports, who named Howell among his early breakout stars in 2023.

"The former fifth-round pick has stabilized the Commanders' quarterback situation with his steady play from the pocket. Howell has guided the team to wins in each of his three career starts, showing poise and precision as a passer. The second-year pro has dazzled as a quick-rhythm passer in an offense that features playmakers galore on the perimeter. As Howell settles into his role as the pass-first point guard of an efficient offense that operates like the Utah Jazz in the John Stockton-Karl Malone era, the Commanders' QB1 will rack up numbers and win as the leader of a squad with the potential to emerge as a surprising playoff contender."

- Bucky Brooks, FOX Sports

This is nothing more than Howell deserves. Confidence is rising exponentially surrounding the signal-caller's long-term fortunes, which would go through the roof if he's able to lead the Commanders to victory against the Buffalo Bills in Week 3.