Everyone wants to know about quarterback Sam Howell whenever Washington Commanders coach Ron Rivera speaks. It’s understandable, considering the second-year quarterback has 19 career passing attempts and is the projected starter for 2023.
Rivera has made it clear he believes in Howell’s potential, but he will not be handed the starting job. Washington’s offseason mission was to sign a veteran with starting experience who could compete with Howell while also serving as a mentor.
In March, the Commanders signed Jacoby Brissett, arguably the top veteran quarterback on the market. With 48 starts in seven NFL seasons, Brissett was the perfect quarterback for Washington in 2023.
Thus far in training camp, Howell has had some good moments. He’s also had those young quarterback moments, too. Brissett has been solid but not spectacular, as Washington’s defense has dominated through the first week of camp.
Howell remains the talk of camp because of the great mystery surrounding him. However, Rivera wants everyone to know they shouldn’t count Brissett out.
“I’ve said a couple [of] times, don’t sleep on Jacoby, he’s done a nice job as well,” Rivera said. “I mean, we got some really good quarterback play going on right now. We’ve got a real good quarterback room. We’re very happy with what we’ve got right now.”
It’s quite possible that Rivera is happy with the quarterback room. Outsiders would not agree, as many have Washington’s quarterback group ranked dead last in the NFL. Of course, those rankings reflect the uncertainty on Howell, not his talent or Brissett’s ability.
As Rivera stated on Wednesday, the preseason games will have a major impact on the outcome of the Commanders’ quarterback situation.