The Washington Commanders are well expected to draft a quarterback in this upcoming draft, where they hold the 2nd overall pick. Jayden Daniels is the odds on favorite to be selected by the recently acquired, historic franchise, however, Drake Maye, and perhaps even JJ McCarthy are also in play to be the first draft pick of the Josh Harris era.
What Does The Future Hold For The Washington Commanders At Quarterback?
This leaves the question as to what happens to incumbent starter, Sam Howell, who despite throwing as many touchdowns as interceptions in a Jameis Winston-like 21-21 first year starting, still had a positive year in many regards, and at times brought life to what was otherwise a stagnant Washington team.
We seem to now have an answer. Rather than keep Sam Howell on the side as a bridge starter/backup to the Commanders’ incoming QB, Washington have now traded the 3rd year QB to the NFC West, per Adam Schefter.
Sam Howell Still A Viable Quarterback Option
Some believe that Sam Howell is still a starting caliber quarterback, and needs another season to develop into a potentially very strong passer in the NFL. In fact, one could argue that, had the Commanders had the 5th or 6th pick (or further down), they would have given Howell more time and started him in new offensive coordinator, Kliff Kingsbury’s offense.
However, this ultimately feels like a win-win for both sides: the Commanders receive additional draft compensation – equivalent to approximately the 95th overall pick in the 2024 draft to help rebuild their team after being very active in free agency.
The Seattle Seahawks, on the other hand, get an upgrade on Drew Lock – who signed with the New York Giants – at backup quarterback, and have a bona fide competitor to current starter, Geno Smith, who had an up-and-down second season in Seattle after signing a 3 year extension last offseason.
Perhaps, come the end of the year, or even earlier, this Seahawks team could be Howell’s.
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