Ron Rivera 'Affinity' for QB Sam Howell? Commanders Ex Reveals Coach's View
The Washington Commanders quarterback situation may be nicely placed. Soon-to-be second-year quarterback Sam Howell looks like he will get the first crack at winning the starting job, while Jacoby Brissett will be the team's backup.
With Washington close to a playoff berth last season, expectations are high for the Commanders to repeat their efforts next season, even with Howell as the starter.
Former Commanders tight end Logan Paulsen (he played five seasons), who was a guest on The Kevin Sheehan Show, stated that given the team's current quarterback situation, he understands head coach Ron Rivera's thinking giving Howell a chance to win the starting job.
“Getting a rookie quarterback to be your long-term starter allows you to do a lot of different things, so I understand Ron’s (Rivera) affinity and philosophy in wanting to give Sam Howell the first crack,” Paulsen said.
The Commanders' signing of Brissett has been lauded by many as he provides the perfect helper for Howell. Brissett is an NFL veteran and has seen almost everything there is to see, whereas Howell is just starting his journey.
It is that kind of dynamic that Paulsen believes puts Washington in a great position should Howell struggle being the full-time starter.
“If for some reason it is not where you want it to be, you got Jacoby Brissett in the wings, who can step in, be the starter for a little bit and then step out, if they feel Sam gets himself ready at some point this year," Paulsen said.
Rivera has stated Howell will get the first chance at the starting job, and after his Week 18 performance in the 26-6 win over the Dallas Cowboys, fans are hopeful that Howell could be their guy for the foreseeable future.
But if not, then Brissett is waiting in the wings. It's not perfect. But as Paulsen explains ... it's understandable.
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