Commanders news: Sam Howell, Terry McLaurin, Eric Bieniemy and Jim Schwartz
By Dean Jones
Which Washington Commanders news stories are hitting the headlines ahead of the team's final official practice of the 2023 season?
There will be a sense of poignancy later today when the Washington Commanders descend on the practice field for their final practice of the 2023 season. It's been a bumpy ride for everyone associated with the franchise for one reason or another. For many, this weekend's game against the Dallas Cowboys will be their last in the famous burgundy and gold helmet.
Until then, the stories causing conversation include Eric Bieniemy unmoved regarding his uncertain future, Sam Howell deserving to see things through, the quest to get Terry McLaurin a notable milestone, and the Commanders named as a potential destination for Jim Schwartz as he looks for another head coaching opportunity.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Commanders want to help Terry McLaurin
While nobody in the right mind is expecting the Washington Commanders to pull off an upset against the Dallas Cowboys in their regular-season finale, they could prevent a fierce divisional rival from clinching the NFC East. Unlikely, but Ron Rivera's men weren't given a chance in Week 18 last year before emerging as comfortable winners.
There is also the small matter of Terry McLaurin's situation to consider. The veteran wide receiver is just 54 receiving yards away from reaching the 1,000-yard milestone. Something quarterback Sam Howell and his teammates will strive to give the Pro Bowler based on comments via Washington's website.
"When guys have certain goals like that and certain things they can accomplish, you want to help them do that. Terry's…a tremendous player, but he's an even better person. Such a great teammate, been so good to me throughout my career here. I think when you're good at all those things, it sets you up for success. He works so hard, he's one of the hardest working guys we have on this team, and it shows out there on the field."
- Sam Howell via Commanders.com
McLaurin has his work cut out versus a stout Cowboys secondary led by former NFL Defensive Player of the Year Stephon Gilmore. The former Ohio State stud gained four receptions from 11 targets for 50 receiving yards in their previous outing this season. More will be needed to secure four figures.