Jay Gruden: Sam Howell making his case to be Commanders’ franchise quarterback

Gruden with some praise for Sam Howell.

Former Washington head coach Jay Gruden still watches his former team closely. Gruden doesn’t only watch the Commanders, as he’s an analyst for the NFL with The 33rd Team. But Gruden is also a frequent guest of some of the local D.C. radio stations, so he sees every Washington game.

The former college quarterback, NFL offensive coordinator and head coach understands quarterback play. Gruden doesn’t often receive enough credit for the development of Andy Dalton and Kirk Cousins, a pair of quarterbacks who may not have the talent of elite QBs but are still playing to this day. And regardless of what Washington fans may think, Cousins is still playing well.

As for Washington’s current quarterback, Sam Howell, Gruden likes Howell. What did he think of Howell’s performance in an otherwise embarrassing performance from the Commanders on Thursday Night Football?

“Sam Howell is making a case to be the franchise quarterback for sure,” Gruden said.

“He’s a tough, competitive guy. And that’s what Washington needs right now. They need competitiveness. Their offensive line is not playing that well right now. They need a quarterback with some toughness, a guy that can get out of trouble and make some tough throws. And Sam’s doing that. He’s taking a lot of sacks; they’re leading the league in giving up sacks. And Sam’s part of that for holding the ball. He’s young; he’s still getting to know the offense with Eric Bieniemy. And they’ll come along as the season goes on.”

Some excellent analysis, as always, from Gruden.

While he likes what Howell is doing, he’s far more concerned with Washington’s defense.