Commanders Pro Bowl WR praises second-year QB

After playing with 10 different quarterbacks since 2019, Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin hopes Sam Howell's poise makes him the answer to QB woes in Washington.

The Pro Bowl wideout complimented the second-year QB, highlighting his composure and knowledge.  

"I think he has a real quiet confidence about him," McLaurin recently said, per the team's website. "He's not gonna tell people what to do, but he knows what he's doing when he gets out on the field."

Howell — a fifth-round pick in 2022 — only started one game last season, but he flashed potential. In a 26-6 Week 18 victory over the Cowboys, who finished sixth in scoring defense in 2022, he went 11-of-19 for 169 yards and a TD while adding a rushing touchdown as well.

Washington has yet to name Howell as the starter over Jacoby Brissett. However, the 22-year-old has the edge since he has more upside. Brissett, 30, is a career backup and has an 18-30 record as a starter. 

The hope for the Commanders is that Howell can end the QB dysfunction that has plagued the franchise. Last season, Washington went 8-8-1 despite rotating QBs Carson Wentz and Taylor Heincke throughout the season. If Howell can provide some stability, the team could start to push for a postseason berth.

Washington has an intriguing offensive mix. Its receiving corps, including McLaurin, Jahan Dotson and Curtis Samuel, is solid. Furthermore, the unit should improve under new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. The Chiefs won two Super Bowls while Bieniemy served as OC from 2018-22.

Howell's quick development is a positive sign for the Commanders because he could provide the boost that the franchise needs.