Washington Commanders rookie quarterback Sam Howell made his NFL debut in Sunday’s season finale against the Dallas Cowboys. Howell was 11-of-19 passing for 169 yards, one touchdown, and an interception in the Commanders’ 26-6 win.
Howell also rushed for 35 yards and a touchdown that elated Commanders fans inside FedEx Field. The fifth-round draft pick already became a fan favorite long before he touched the field on Sunday. But after collecting his first NFL win, he made a shocking revelation.
Howell revealed he kept the fact he grew up a Cowboys fan from the Washington media all week.
“My dad is a Cowboys fan, so it was a cool moment for us as a family,” Howell said, per Sam Fortier of the Washington Post.
Howell’s family attended the game. Wentz loaned the family his suite so they could enjoy Howell’s pro debut.
For the first 16 games, Howell split his time as the backup to Taylor Heinicke while Carson Wentz was injured and inactive as the third-team QB.
The Commanders were eliminated from playoff contention in Week 17. Thus, this week Howell got the nod as the starter with the season coming to a close. Howell will have joyous memories from his first game, including tossing a touchdown on his first snap. Although wide receiver Terry McLaurin tossed the ball into the stands.
Despite growing up rooting for “America’s Team,” Howell will surely hope he has a long career tormenting them in a Commanders uniform.
