Quarterback Dilemma for Commanders: What Awaits Sam Howell After Being Benched?
Speculation about Washington’s dissatisfaction with Sam Howell intensified on Sunday as the second-year quarterback found himself benched for the second consecutive game. The official announcement came on Wednesday, declaring that veteran Jacoby Brissett would take over the quarterback position for the remaining two games of the 2023 regular season.
Although the 4-11 Commanders have little at stake beyond pride and draft position, the organization seems convinced that it has seen enough from Howell and is ready to move on. The question of whether Washington will use its considerable cap space to acquire an established starter or invest a high draft pick in a promising quarterback prospect remains unanswered. Nevertheless, it appears that Howell’s tenure in the nation’s capital is coming to an end.
Struggling Sam
Finding success in the NFL is unusual for a fifth-round quarterback, yet for much of 2023, Howell appeared poised to defy the odds. The former North Carolina Tar Heel showcased his potential by throwing for 2,112 yards over a seven-game stretch from Oct. 1 to Nov. 12, briefly leading the NFL in passing yards.
However, Howell’s fortunes took a downturn in recent weeks, coinciding with the Commanders’ six-game losing streak. Over his last five games, he managed only two touchdown passes and threw an NFL-worst 17 interceptions, including two in the recent game against the New York Jets, where he completed just six of 22 pass attempts.
Compounding the issue, Howell faced a league-high 60 sacks this season, exacerbating the challenges for a young quarterback, especially one chosen outside the first round who may not be assured another opportunity elsewhere.
“This guy can be a really good quarterback in this league, I really do believe that,” commented head coach Ron Rivera on Wednesday. “This has been a long year for everybody. This is a chance for him to take a breath.”
Commanders Climbing the Draft Order
The Commanders’ losing streak with Howell at the helm presents a unique, potentially franchise-altering opportunity in the 2024 NFL Draft. Washington has lacked stability at quarterback for decades, and the current situation may allow them to change that. Holding the third overall pick, which they could maintain given their upcoming games against the San Francisco 49ers and the Dallas Cowboys, Washington is well-positioned to select an elite quarterback prospect.
While USC’s Caleb Williams might not be available at #3, North Carolina’s Drake Maye and LSU’s Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels are viable options. With five picks in the first 100, the Commanders have a significant opportunity to reshape their future quickly. In a few years, fans might find themselves appreciating Howell and Rivera for the losses that paved the way for positive change.
