Another Year in Commanders Offense Will 'Do Wonders' For Sam Howell
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Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell has shown promise in his first season as the starter, and while there have been ups and downs, for the most part, Howell has shown that he could be the team's franchise quarterback going forward.
It is also worth remembering that Howell is just one year into learning Eric Bieniemy's offensive system and while there have been some bright spots, we imagine that Bieniemy hasn't gotten too deep into his call sheet.
But as for next year? What would another year under the guidance of Bieniemy do for Howell?
“Oh, it'll do wonders because it'll be one of those deals that, he's been there and done that," Bieniemy said. "Obviously it continues with his growth process and this evolution of him becoming a quarterback that he has to become, because right now, honestly, he's learning the system. He's still continuing to learn the system. There's other things he has to learn, too, there's a lot of complex defensive coordinators out there that are going to present different issues to him. And that's a major test each and every week.
"Not only is he being tested by us and being evaluated, but on top of that, he's being tested by what he's seeing every single play. So, he has to learn how to process that information. And when those things can become secondary to him, now the game can slow down for him. A second year would be outstanding because it will help him to continue that growth process.”
Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell (14) throws the ball against the Los Angeles Rams in the first half at SoFi Stadium.
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Whether or not Howell gets that second year as the starter (and the majority of reps) is unknown as the Commanders hold a high draft pick (No. 4), and with the draft littered with talented quarterbacks, Washington might have to make a choice.
Go ahead with Howell and use that pick to put better talent around him, or take one of the young quarterbacks early and develop them.
It will be fascinating to see what the Commanders front office does, and Howell has three games to perhaps sway their judgment.
While there has been progress throughout the year, there have also been poor parts as well, in particular the last month where the offense failed to score more than 20 points in a game, and Howell has averaged just 196 passing yards per game and has just two touchdown passes and six interceptions.
But it has been a season of growth for Howell and many hope that it will be beneficial in the long run for the franchise.
However, will he get another year as the leading man in Bieniemy's system? That, right now is still up in the air.
