Unfortunate Update for Patriots Enthusiasts: The Team Could Potentially Seek a Quarterback in the NFL Draft.
In April, there is a possibility that another team could enter the competition to secure a franchise quarterback.
During the game against the New York Jets, Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell was benched following his second interception with eight minutes remaining in the third quarter. This marked the second consecutive game in which Howell was replaced. Jacoby Brissett, a seasoned quarterback, took over and orchestrated three consecutive touchdown drives. Despite Washington’s halftime deficit of 27-7, they staged a second-half comeback, ultimately falling short as the Jets secured a 30-28 victory at MetLife Stadium.
Considering Howell’s back-to-back benchings and Brissett’s effective performance, it is reasonable to speculate that Howell may not retain the starting quarterback position in Washington, particularly given the likelihood of a coaching change at the end of the season under the team’s new ownership.
The prospect of the Commanders seeking a franchise quarterback creates a less-than-ideal scenario for the New England Patriots and other teams eyeing a quarterback in the upcoming draft. Washington, initially not considered a contender for a quarterback selection when Howell was among the league leaders in passing yards earlier in the season, now has the potential to move ahead of the Patriots in the draft order. As of 6 p.m. ET on Sunday, the Patriots hold the second overall pick, while the Commanders are positioned fourth.
The current draft order after the early Week 16 slate is as follows:
1. Bears (via 2-13 Panthers; .518 Strength Of Schedule)
2. Patriots (3-11; .522 SOS)
3. Cardinals (3-11; .565 SOS)
4. Commanders (4-11; .523 SOS)
While the Patriots have a significant need for a quarterback among the top teams, they are not the only ones. The Chicago Bears may consider moving on from Justin Fields to select either Caleb Williams or Drake Maye, and the Arizona Cardinals could explore options like trading Kyler Murray or dealing their pick to a team interested in Williams or Maye. Now, the Commanders have also emerged as potential contenders in the quarterback draft landscape.
