- Sam Howell Named Starting Quarterback for Washington Commanders
- Showing Impressive Performances and Decision-Making
- Head Coach has Confidence in Howell’s Development and Potential
Sam Howell Secures Starting Quarterback Role
The Washington Commanders have decisively chosen Sam Howell as their starting quarterback, marking a culmination of his steady progress and standout performances during the preseason. The official announcement follows months of training camp preparation, where Howell showcased his capabilities and led the team’s offense with assurance.
Head Coach Ron Rivera affirmed Howell’s selection, stating that the young quarterback had effectively met the challenges set forth by the coaching staff. Rivera emphasized the growth observed in Howell’s skills from the initial Organized Team Activities (OTAs) and minicamp through to the ongoing training camp. The decision to name Howell the starter signifies the Commanders’ confidence in his ability to lead the team on the field.
The offseason had begun with a quarterback competition between Howell and veteran Jacoby Brissett, as Rivera had underlined that the role had to be earned based on performance. However, Howell’s consistent progress and command of the offensive playbook left little room for doubt. During training camp, Howell assumed a majority of first-team reps, effectively establishing his dominance as the potential starting quarterback.
Howell’s transition to the starting position is an outcome of his impressive track record, despite his limited experience in the professional league. A fifth-round pick from North Carolina, Howell had an impactful showing in his rookie year, indicating his potential during a game against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 18. Rivera’s early conversations with offensive coordinator candidates revealed that Howell was presumed to be the frontrunner, further reinforcing his candidacy.
While the Commanders’ decision to rely on Howell garnered skepticism due to his minimal experience, his adept decision-making, leadership in huddles, mobility, and the ability to adapt under pressure were key factors in swaying the coaching staff’s decision. The quarterback’s continuous growth and improvement throughout the training camp were pivotal in securing his place as the starter.
The Commanders’ preseason win against the Cleveland Browns offered a glimpse of Howell’s capabilities. His performance, including 9 completions out of 12 passes for 77 yards and a touchdown, earned him a passer rating of 119.1. Howell’s play was characterized by commendable decision-making and a confident command of the offense.
As the Commanders look to build momentum for the upcoming season, Howell’s elevation to the starting position marks a significant step forward. The pressure on him is substantial, given the franchise’s history of quarterback turnover and the new ownership that has recently taken the helm. However, Howell’s composed demeanor and dedication to improvement bode well for the team’s aspirations.
The Commanders’ fans and coaching staff alike now turn their attention to the regular season, where Howell’s performance will be closely scrutinized as he steps into the spotlight as the team’s lead quarterback. The journey from a rookie with limited playing time to a trusted starter is a testament to Howell’s dedication and potential for growth in the NFL arena.
Betting implications
For the Commanders, they could be in for a challenging season. The NFC East was one of the most competitive divisions in the league, featuring three teams in the playoffs, while the Commanders were the only ones left out.
They will also face a tough road this season. According to Pro Football Focus, they have the sixth-toughest schedule this season. There won’t be too many games where they’ll be favored, and you can anticipate them having another challenging season.
