Sam Howell continues to hold the starting position for Commanders despite this setback, but his future is now less certain than it has ever been. This will not benefit us, in my opinion.

Sam Howell continues to hold the starting position for Commanders despite this setback, but his future is now less certain than it has ever been. This will not benefit us, in my opinion.

In the midst of what is likely to be his final season in Washington, Commanders coach Ron Rivera has frequently highlighted one positive aspect of the team.

Following a defeat to the Eagles in late October, Rivera stated, “I believe the main thing, more than anything else, I think we have identified a young quarterback that gives us an opportunity.”

But even that little bit of sunlight has gotten dimmer. In Sunday’s loss to the Rams, backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett replaced first-year starter Sam Howell, who had deteriorated over the last five weeks in games against better defenses. Howell was benched with nine minutes remaining.

There is not even the slightest indication of a quarterback debate right now, even after Brissett entered and completed two touchdown passes. Rivera made it clear this week that Howell will continue to start as the Commanders prepare to play the New York Jets in New Jersey.

After the game, Howell declared very plainly, “I have to play better.” “We performed well throughout the game and had some offensive possession, but we were simply not good enough. I need to perform better and play better. So that is the way it is.

“I am aware that this particular game or anything like does not define me. Therefore, do not give up and keep working to improve.

With the Jets, 49ers, and Cowboys having three of the greatest defenses in the league to end the season, it is easier said than done.

Howell is juggling the accumulation of a lengthy season as well. He is been sacked 59 times, which is a league-high, and it does not appear probable that the offensive line of the Commanders will find a solution to the issue before Sunday.

The Commanders are in a tempting position to select a young quarterback in the NFL draft—even if it means benching Howell—as they currently hold the fourth pick in the draft. However, a few victories in the final stretch would help Howell lock down his starting position for 2024.

When questioned about Howell on Sunday and Monday, Rivera was brusque, claiming he had just benched Howell to protect the quarterback.

The coach responded, “Well, just really trying to take care of him a little bit.” “He was in a predicament when his ears were forced back in that manner. did not want to witness anything unusual.

When questioned on Monday if quarterback Josh Howell would still start if the team was in the running for the playoffs, Rivera backed off, suggesting that the quarterback’s season may have a cap.

With Brissett at center, it is unlikely that the season would have gone any differently. Even a nine-win season with an experienced quarterback probably would not have been enough for Rivera to remain in his position as coach after new ownership took control.

Brissett stated that he felt good about receiving the opportunity to play, and he will probably be prepared to sign as a top backup with a team that needs a strong experienced presence when the offseason begins.

Howell acknowledged that Brissett had taught him a lot, but he also stressed how eager he was to return to the center.

He remarked, “I understand what it takes to play this position successfully in this league.” “I have seen a lot of guys do it, obviously. Jacoby did a good job on the field. He has demonstrated throughout his career that he is an extremely talented football player. He performed an excellent job of carrying out those scenarios and the plays that were called when I watched him work the offense and those two-minute drills during those times. He is a terrific teacher, therefore I will definitely constantly strive to learn and improve.