Commanders' Sam Howell Ron Rivera's 'Final Chance' to Get QB Right?
The Washington Commanders are, for all intents and purposes, "all-in" on second-year quarterback Sam Howell. Jacoby Brissett was brought in as Howell's backup after Washington moved on from Carson Wentz and Taylor Heinicke this offseason.
With so many moves already made this offseason, what is the Commanders' biggest priority? NFL.com's thinks getting Howell caught up and ready to roll in Week 1 is paramount.
Washington has repeatedly stated Howell is their quarterback, and head coach Ron Rivera's future could hinge on how successful the Commanders' season is.
"The Commanders are crossing their fingers at quarterback," NFL.com writes. "Jacoby Brissett is a fine backup who showed starting traits a year ago. He's hardly a sure thing, though, which is also true of second-year arm Sam Howell... This could be Ron Rivera's final chance to get it right under center. He might as well pick his own dance partner."
In what will be Rivera's fourth season as Commanders head coach, he has never had a winning record come season's end. Washington has a record of 22-27-1 over Rivera's tenure.
Is the time coming for Washington to potentially move on from "Riverboat Ron?"
Possibly and he has nailed his colors to the mast with Howell, and as Sessler writes, it might be Rivera's last chance with the Commanders, and the key to his success is that Howell does well.
It has been an offseason of change for Washington off the field with the impending sale of the franchise, Eric Bieniemy coming in as offensive coordinator, and a roster that, for some, is ready to take that next step.
But ultimately, it is up to Rivera to get the best out of this team, and seeing as the defense under Jack Del Rio was a top-10 unit last season, it is up to the offense to now pull their weight.
Is Howell the guy to get Washington where they want to go? For Rivera's sake, he has to be.
Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Washington Commanders? Click Here.
Follow Adam Schultz on Twitter
Follow Commander Country on Twitter.
Want even more Washington Commanders news? Check out the SI.com team page here
