Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Biggest Offseason Question: What's Next For Howell?

Originally posted on FanNation Washington Football
By Adam Schultz | Last updated 1/14/24

Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell finished his first season as the starter with a 4-13 record and question marks hanging over his future.

With the former North Carolina standout having bright spots at times, and poor displays in others, the Commanders' decision-makers might be undecided about what to do about the quarterback position going forward.

ESPN writes that with so many talented quarterbacks in the upcoming draft, the Commanders are going to have a tough decision to make regarding Howell.

"The biggest offseason question surrounds Howell," ESPN wrote. "With a new regime entering the franchise, selecting a new signal-caller early in the draft remains a possibility. Caleb Williams (USC) is likely to be selected first, but the Commanders could have a choice between Drake Maye (North Carolina) and Jayden Daniels (LSU)."

Howell showed flashes at times this season that many fans and even Jonathan Allen think that he could be the franchise quarterback for the next decade.

But then performances against the Buffalo Bills (170 passing yards, four interceptions) and the New York Jets (6/22 for 56 yards and two interceptions) gave fans cause for concern.

Such was Howell's rut at the backend of the season, the decision was made by then head coach Ron Rivera and offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy to sit Howell in favor of veteran Jacoby Brissett.

Now, it is worth noting that this was Howell's first season and prior to Week 1, he only had one start under his belt, so there was always going to be a learning curve, but the NFL is a results business and given that Washington has the No. 2 overall pick, Howell's future as the starter is anything but certain.

The Commanders have a host of important decisions to make this offseason, but perhaps none bigger than what they decide to do with Howell as it could shape the franchise's future for the next decade.

No pressure, Mr. Harris.

This article first appeared on FanNation Washington Football and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: