With the Washington Commanders eliminated from playoff contention, fans and some media are yearning for rookie Sam Howell to start at quarterback Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys. Commanders defensive tackle Jonathan Allen expects Howell to make his NFL debut in Washington’s season finale.
The Commanders selected Howell in the fifth round of the 2022 draft. However, Washington had already traded for veteran Carson Wentz, and the team assured Taylor Heinicke was the backup.
Wentz started six games before breaking his finger. Heinicke became the starter for nine games in the absence of Wentz. Howell was promoted to backup for eight of Heinicke’s starts but never appeared under center.
Howell was relegated back to the third quarterback and was inactive for the last two games. Last week, Wentz started over Heinicke against the Cleveland Browns. It was Wentz’s first start since Week 6. However, the veteran threw three interceptions as the Commanders lost 24-10, leading to their elimination from playoff contention.
The Commanders are back to searching for answers at quarterback. It’s the same position the team has been in recent years since Kirk Cousins left in free agency in 2018.
Many view Howell in the same light as Cousins, a seasoned late-round draft pick with the potential to be a long-term starter. But there are reasons why Howell slid from a first-round prospect to the fifth-round. The range between Howell’s floor and ceiling intrigues fans.
To some, Howell provides the most hope toward the 2023 season among the three current quarterbacks. Wentz is not expected to return next season. Meanwhile, Heinicke’s ceiling is already established.
There is no better way to find out about Howell than to put him on the field. Commanders head coach Ron Rivera said the team is approaching Sunday’s game against the Cowboys expecting to win. Rivera added he’ll evaluate the quarterback situation before this week’s practice.
The Cowboys have a chance to win the NFC East division title and jump into the No. 1 seed in the NFC to receive a first-round bye. The Commanders would love nothing more than to spoil their rivals’ plans.
Will Rivera allow Heinicke to finish up the season that he nearly saved? Or will Rivera give Howell a live audition to close out the season?
