Commanders News: Sam Howell, Ron Rivera, Week 17 and Bill Belichick

Commanders QB Sam Howell's focus

It was another difficult afternoon for Sam Howell in Week 16 at the New York Jets. The struggling quarterback got off to the worst possible start thanks to failures elsewhere. His confidence waned as the game went on. He was benched again in favor of Jacoby Brissett, who immediately provided better composure and distribution under center.

The Washington Commanders almost snatched defeat from the jaws of victory before faltering late. That may be a morale win for head coach Ron Rivera, but it is not a good look for Howell in his quest to be the team's starting signal-caller under the new regime.

Howell remains defiant based on comments via USA Today Sports. The former fifth-round pick is focusing on what he can control. After that, everything is out of his hands.

"I just have to keep controlling what I can control. I have to keep taking one day at a time, and I know it is still early on in my career; I am still a young player, and I just have to keep doing what I can to keep trying to get better and not let this moment define who I am as a player or who I am as a person. I won’t let it define me."

- Sam Howell via USA Today Sports

The possibility of Brissett starting in Week 17 versus the San Francisco 49ers has grown significantly. Considering their defense will be looking to get back on track after a poor performance against the Baltimore Ravens, that might be the best thing for Howell all things considered.