The Washington Commanders made a lot of changes before starting the 2023 season. From new ownership to a new offensive coordinator, and of course, a different starting quarterback, with Sam Howell taking over under center.
A 3-5 start suggests there’s still plenty of room for improvement, and coach Ron Rivera is likely aware of that more than anyone, but there’s reportedly one choice the team’s decision-makers feel they’ve gotten right.
Dianna Russini states, “There is a strong belief in the building that the Commanders have found their franchise quarterback in Sam Howell, and now it’s about building for 2024.”
After trading young pass-rushers Montez Sweat and Chase Young, the Commanders have made one thing clear: they’re more focused on competing in the future than they are right away this season. But Washington has put itself in a strong position to improve, boasting five picks in the first three rounds of the 2024 NFL Draft and three in the top 50 selections.
Now, with their QB position settled, the Commanders can focus on supplying the 23-year-old with more tools to succeed, like a competent offensive line. Howell has been sacked an NFL-high 41 times this season, putting him on pace to set a new NFL record in one season.