Sam Howell wasn’t supposed to be the Washington Commanders’ next franchise quarterback when he was drafted as an afterthought in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft.

But after Ron Rivera named the 22-year-old as the starter going into the 2023 NFL season, Washington is hoping to benefit from the chip firmly planted on Howell’s shoulder.

It doesn’t matter how you find a star quarterback or whether you thought he’d pan out when you acquired him. All that matters is that you find him.

I’m fully convinced Washington has done so, and that Howell is going to be a Pro Bowl-caliber quarterback for the next decade. I’m not crazy. Trust me.

College Stats that Speak Volumes

Howell’s journey began at North Carolina, where he showcased his exceptional talents over three seasons. His college statistics paint a clear picture of his consistent growth and remarkable achievements. From 2019 to 2021, Howell demonstrated his accuracy, agility, and decision-making prowess, amassing over 10,000 passing yards and an impressive 92 touchdown passes.

Howell leaned heavily on Michael Carter and Javonte Williams, the two best running backs in the ACC, as well as receivers Dazz Newsome and Dyami Brown, some of the more dynamic players at their position in the league. After those players, all of which turned into NFL draft picks, departed, Howell’s numbers declined. This led to a precipitous drop in his draft stock.

Season	Games	Passing Yards	Touchdowns	Rushing Yards	QB Rating
2019	13	3,641	38	35	160.2
2020	12	3,586	30	146	179.1
2021	12	3,056	24	828	154.2
Career	37	10,283	92	1,009	164.2

Overcoming Draft Day Disposition

Despite initial projections of being an early NFL Draft pick as a freshman and sophomore, Howell’s journey took an unexpected turn when he was chosen in the fifth round by the Washington Commanders. This placement fueled his determination to prove his worth and showcase his potential as a dynamic and impactful player. He demonstrated his capabilities during the 2022 season finale, providing a glimpse of the future by leading his team to an upset victory against the Dallas Cowboys.

Dissecting the Doubts

While some NFL draft experts noted concerns regarding Howell’s athleticism and decision-making, these doubts fail to encapsulate the entirety of his potential. These experts often overlook his innate ability to elevate those around him. Similar to other late-round draft successes like Brock Purdy, Howell excels at delivering the ball to his playmakers with precision and intelligence. His quick decision-making and limited mistakes underpin his capabilities as a reliable quarterback.

The Winning Formula

The synergy between Howell’s skills and the Washington Commanders’ defensive prowess creates a winning formula that cannot be ignored. With a formidable defensive line featuring stars like Chase Young, Montez Sweat, Daron Payne, and Jonathan Allen, Howell is positioned to thrive. He doesn’t need to be a standout performer, he just needs to focus on connecting with open receivers and avoiding turnovers.

Weapons at Sam Howell’s Disposal

Howell is far from alone in his journey towards an NFC East Championship. Surrounded by a roster of talented players, including Terry McLaurin, Antonio Gibson, Brian Robinson, and Logan Thomas, he has the tools to execute a multifaceted and efficient offensive strategy. These individuals enhance Howell’s ability to make impactful plays and secure victories.

The Future is Bright

In the midst of doubts and uncertainties, one thing remains clear: Sam Howell has the potential to lead the Washington Commanders to an NFC East Championship. The competition in the division is tough with Jalen Hurts, Dak Prescott, and the improving Daniel Jones leading the other contenders in the East, but Howell has the potential to keep pace with all of those quarterbacks with time and development.

His ability to adapt, make smart decisions, and work cohesively with his teammates positions him as a formidable force in the NFL. While the journey may not culminate in immediate success, Howell’s trajectory points towards a promising future as a true franchise quarterback.

Sam Howell’s journey from college football stardom to the Washington Commanders’ starting quarterback is a testament to his resilience, adaptability, and unwavering dedication. With a blend of natural talent, strategic decision-making, and a supporting cast of exceptional players, Howell is primed to take his team to new heights.

As we watch the unfolding chapters of his career, one thing is certain: Sam Howell is not just a quarterback – he’s a potential game-changer, capable of leading the Commanders to NFC East glory and beyond.