Grading Commanders quarterback Sam Howell's first five games in 2023

Commanders vs. Bears - Week 5

• 72.54% completion
• 388 passing yards
• 2 touchdowns
• 1 interception
• 19 rushing yards
• 5 sacks against
• 46.6 QBR
• 99.1 passer rating

After two straight defeats, facing the winless Chicago Bears on Thursday Night Football was seen as the perfect get-right game for the Washington Commanders. Unfortunately, it turned out to be anything but.

Another sluggish start saw the Commanders and Sam Howell get into another early hole. Not exactly ideal after two offensive drives, but it's another sign of poor preparation from a coaching staff under increasing pressure.

In all honesty, the Commanders were never really in this game. However, the performance of Howell with almost the entire offense on his shoulders was once again encouraging.

Howell had to throw his way back into the game, which he did effectively. The quarterback got the football out quickly, improvised when needed, and also proved efficient in the red zone despite getting no assistance whatsoever from a defense that has flattered to deceive through five weeks.

Performance Grade: B+

Ron Rivera freely admitted recently that the Commanders are putting too much pressure on Howell. He's coped extremely well with difficult circumstances, but the onus is on other position groups to step up and give this team a fighting chance of attaining success in 2023.

As for Howell, he's been nothing short of impressive overall. Long may it continue.