Commanders News: Tress Way, Sam Howell, Daron Payne, and becoming desirable

Commanders praise Sam Howell's quiet leadership

Sam Howell won over teammates emphatically throughout early offseason workouts as he looks to solidify the Washington Commanders quarterback position next season and beyond. He might not have the flamboyance of many signal-callers around the league, but that doesn't mean he cannot take charge in a more methodical way.

A recent report from Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated claimed that Howell had a significant lead in the race to become Washington's No. 1 option heading into training camp. The former fifth-round selection is taking nothing for granted but has impressed wide receiver Terry McLaurin with quiet confidence based on his comments via the team's website.

"I think Sam has a real quiet confidence about him. He's not gonna tell people what to do, but he knows what he's doing when he gets out on the field."

- Terry McLaurin via Commanders.com

This was a sentiment echoed by running back Antonio Gibson, who added that Howell's improved playbook knowledge and growing belief are seeing a genuine leader emerge from the proverbial wilderness as a rookie.

"If someone's not lined up he's taking control of that. If we don't get out fast enough, he's bringing us back in the huddle, being a captain."

- Antonio Gibson via Commanders.com

Getting those in the locker room onside was a big objective for Howell this offseason. There is still a long way to go, but the North Carolina product is off to a decent start after Ron Rivera placed a significant amount of faith in the second-year-pro.