Commanders News: Sam Howell, sale positivity, Eric Bieniemy and QB situation
By Dean Jones
Commanders QB Sam Howell is a dangerous weapon
Sam Howell is coming into his own as the projected Washington Commanders starting quarterback heading into the 2023 season It's been a crash course of increased responsibilities and learning a new offensive system throughout the offseason so far, but the signal-caller seems to be handling everything well despite some inconsistent practices during early workouts.
This is a decent enough platform from which to build. Howell has done nothing to suggest he won't be under center when the Commanders take on the Arizona Cardinals in Week 1, but whether he can hang onto the No. 1 spot for a full 17-game slate remains to be seen.
One thing that Howell does have going for him according to Fred Smoot on the Command Center podcast via USA Today Sports is the unknown. Teams don't have much legitimate film to prepare for the former fifth-round selection, which could make him a dangerous weapon in the early stages.
"I think the unknown of Sam Howell is a dangerous weapon. Because defensive backfields do not know how to prepare for him. People are going to realize they cannot run two-man under against him."
- Fred Smoot via USA Today Sports
Looking at the Commanders' schedule in 2023, there's a chance to start well. Much will depend on the offensive line and whether Howell can hit the ground running, but a window to build confidence right out of the gate is evident if everyone gets on the same page quickly throughout camp.
Anything less is going to come with severe ramifications attached.