Maybe if Maryland was still in the ACC, the DMV would know more about Sam Howell.
Howell was a problem for all defenses in the ACC. His ability to run and pass would be the biggest threat to opposing defenses.
The three-year starter left Chapel Hill with over 10,000 yards passing, 92 touchdown passes, and with 11 of his 17 career rushing touchdowns coming in his final season.
Howell made his preseason debut in the Commanders 23-21 loss to Carolina. Howell didn’t disappoint. He finished the game 9-16 for 145 yards with two rushing touchdowns.
“I thought Sam did a nice job. He played like he did in college,” coach Ron Rivera said after the preseason loss. “This is a guy that is very smart, got a good arm, very athletic, runs well with the ball. He is a guy that has a bright future.”
Washington needed a young quarterback to groom and Howell still being available in the fifth round was a gift. Sometimes going later gives a rookie a better opportunity and an opportunity is all Howell needs.
“Every opportunity I get I’m going to try to take advantage of it and do my best for this organization,” Howell said. “That’s what they drafted me here to do, and I’m going to try and continue to get better. I’m gonna give this organization all I got.”
Projected starter, Carson Wentz, has three years left on his deal so there’s no reason for the Commanders to rush Howell.
That might be the toughest thing for Washington’s starved fan base but Washington’s patience with Howell’s development might be just want the fan base needs.
