All Tar Heels

UNC Football Legend Named Week 1 Starter in NFL

A recent UNC football star is already the Washington Commanders' starting signal-caller.

Matt Giles

UNC football quarterback Sam Howell (Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports)
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The expectation has been for 22-year-old Sam Howell to get the starting nod for the Washington Commanders to start the season. And that's precisely how it's playing out, as head coach Ron Rivera announced UNC football's former three-year starter at No. 1 on his depth chart when the Commanders host the Arizona Cardinals on Sept. 10.

"This was about what Sam did," Rivera told the media on Friday morning about his somewhat easy decision. "[Jacoby Brissett] has been a true pro and done everything asked, and he's also helped mentor Sam. He's a more than viable quarterback.

"But there were certain things Sam had to show us, and everybody knew from my perspective it was Sam's to lose, and he did nothing to lose it."

Washington selected Howell, the Tar Heels' 2019 ACC Rookie of the Year and two-time All-ACC honoree, in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He began his rookie year as the second backup to now-free agent Carson Wentz and didn't see a single snap until the season finale when the Commanders were out of playoff contention.

He drew the start in that game, a 26-6 home victory over the Dallas Cowboys and their regular starters, completing 11 of his 19 passes for 169 yards while racking up one touchdown through the air, another on the ground, and one interception.

From then on, the crafty UNC football product looked like a frontrunner for the starting job this go-round.

"I feel confident and comfortable enough to say Sam's our guy," Rivera added on Friday. "There's still more growth to go. He'll continue to get better. We believe that."

Stay tuned to All Tar Heels on SI.com for more UNC football news.

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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, Duke Blue Devils on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining UNC on SI in 2023, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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