Could the Commanders instigate bidding war for Sam Howell?

A recent report suggests the Washington Commanders might be able to instigate a bidding war for quarterback Sam Howell this offseason.

The lion's share of offseason speculation centers on what the Washington Commanders have planned for the quarterback position. It was a complex riddle the previous regime couldn't resolve effectively. The conclusions made by the new regime will have significant ramifications attached.

Sam Howell has become almost the forgotten man as fans turn their attention to potential incomings. The former fifth-round pick couldn't overcome some difficult circumstances, especially over the second half of 2023. But there were enough flashes to suggest he might become more productive once everything around him improves.

Whether the Commanders give him this chance is debatable. They have the No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft to spend on a quarterback should they choose. There is also enough capital to sign a veteran free agent or examine trade possibilities if the right opportunity presents itself.

Commanders could get strong interest for Sam Howell

Some speculation has also emerged about Howell taking his chances elsewhere. According to Ralph Vacchiano from FOX Sports citing sources, there could be plenty of interest in the gunslinger if the Commanders start taking calls. He named the New York Jets specifically as a team to watch.

"What about [Sam] Howell? Multiple NFL sources believe several teams would be interested in trading for the 23-year-old who threw for 3,946 yards and 21 touchdowns in 17 starts last season (albeit with an NFL-worst 21 interceptions). They could potentially get a third-round pick for him — maybe more — if they decide they're willing to deal him sometime around the draft. A team like the New York Jets, who know they'll need a quarterback of the future when their experiment with 40-year-old Aaron Rodgers ends, would be wise to make a call."

- Ralph Vacchiano, FOX Sports

This could arguably be the best-case scenario for Washington. Several suitors for Howell means general manager Adam Peters might be able to instigate a bidding war for the player. Something that typically drives up the price and in some cases, sees an organization overpay to seal the deal.

Peters won't want to show his hand too early regarding his plans for football's most crucial position. He'll want to keep other teams guessing - especially since the Chicago Bears taking Caleb Williams at No. 1 overall is rapidly becoming a done deal. Maintaining and perhaps even enhancing leverage before striking is the best course of action.

Of course, keeping Howell around also comes with benefits attached. He's got a cheap fifth-round rookie contract over the next two seasons. Even if he ends up being a backup, it makes sound financial sense.

Some fans remain adamant that Howell deserves another shot with a better structure in place and an offensive line that can keep clean pockets more consistently. This would provide Peters with the flexibility to build other areas of the roster and potentially trade down from No. 2 overall for a king's ransom.

Everything is up in the air right now. Howell's future doesn't look especially promising from the outside looking in. But until something gets confirmed one way or another, his supporters have hope that he'll be given a fighting chance to become the team's No. 1 under the new regime.

If not, then a robust market for the quarterback could be music to Peters' ears.