Quarterback 'Biggest Hole' for Commanders?

The Washington Commanders have a big question mark at the most important position in football.

Sam Howell is arguably the biggest question mark for the Washington Commanders heading into the 2023 season. 

And while some view Howell as a question mark, others view him as a potential letdown. 

In an article by ESPN, they listed quarterback as the biggest hole on the roster for the Commanders.

"The track record of fifth-round quarterbacks is not a strong one, and Howell had a minus-18.5% passing DVOA and 44.5 QBR in limited playing time last year," ESPN writes. 

While his numbers may not have dazzled, Washington did win convincingly in his lone start. The only fifth-round quarterback with some semblance of recent success is Mike White, who signed with the Miami Dolphins this offseason as a backup. In 2022, White threw for 1,192 yards, three touchdowns and four interceptions for the New York Jets.

If Howell doesn't pan out, Washington has Jacoby Brissett, who is who has proven to be a capable starter. In 11 games, Brissett threw for 2,608 yards, 12 touchdowns and six interceptions for the Cleveland Browns in 2022. 

But even if Brissett is thrown into action, ESPN has its doubts. 

"Jacoby Brissett makes for an excellent backup and could take over the starting role in training camp, but let's not expect him to repeat his fantastic 2022 season," ESPN writes. "Brissett ranked eighth among starters with a 60.0 QBR and seventh with 13.0% passing DVOA, but that's a good bit higher than what he has done with significant playing time in past years...Quarterback is still the position where the Commanders' current starting plan makes you scratch your head." 

Few quarterbacks have more pressure on him than Sam Howell. If he fails to live up to expectations, the ripple effects will go beyond the football field. But if Howell does pan out, Washington may have a chance to play meaningful games beyond the first week of January. 

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