UNC Football: Commanders planning to start Sam Howell next season

Based on recent reports, it appears that former UNC football standout Sam Howell is in line to become a starting quarterback next season.

The Washington Commanders are currently searching for a new offensive coordinator. As they are discussing the position with potential candidates, they are informing them of their plans for a former UNC football standout.

According to Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports, the Commanders are planning on Sam Howell being their starting quarterback during the 2023 season. Howell, who started and won his NFL debut in the final week of the season, is expected to be considered ‘QB1″ when the new league year begins.

This past season was a “redshirt” year for Howell, who served mostly as the team’s third-string quarterback. He had the opportunity to learn and gain experience, as the Commanders now hope he is ready to take the next step in becoming the leader of the team moving forward.

In his debut, the former Tar Heel completed 11 of 19 passes for 169 yards. The first throw of his professional career was a good one, as he connected with Terry McLaurin for a touchdown.

If Howell is, in fact, the team’s projected starter, it’s unlikely that they’ll be in the market for a veteran quarterback via the trade market or draft a quarterback with their first-round pick this offseason.

Based on Jones’ report, veteran Carson Wentz is expected to be released before the league year begins in March. He also believes that the team is hoping to re-sign Taylor Heinicke to be the backup to Howell next season.

A lot could change during the offseason, but it is encouraging to see that the Commanders have seen enough to believe that Sam Howell can be their quarterback of the future.

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