NFL Predictions: Commanders Bench Sam Howell For Jacoby Brissett?

Can Sam Howell remain the Washington Commanders starting quarterback throughout the season? Or will Jacoby Brissett eventually lead the Commanders offense?

Have the Washington Commanders finally found their answer at quarterback in Sam Howell?

Howell's performance in the preseason gave hope, and Washington has optimism he can solve its longstanding issue at the game's most important position. But that optimism isn't shared by everyone. 

ESPN ranked and gave a bold prediction for each team. For the Commanders, they predicted Howell would be benched in favor of Jacoby Brissett early in the season. 

"Jacoby Brissett will take over as starting quarterback by Week 7," ESPN writes. "I'm worried about Howell's high sack rates and sack-to-pressure rates in college and how that pairs with a weak Commanders interior offensive line."

ESPN also ranked Washington 26th among the 32 teams. 

The Commanders are favored against a rebuilding Arizona Cardinals team that represents an opportunity for Howell to get his feet under him. The stretch from Week 2 to Week 4 will show Washington what the second-year quarterback is made of. 

The Commanders go on the road to face the Denver Broncos, then play the Buffalo Bills at home before traveling to play the Philadelphia Eagles. Denver figures to be much-improved compared to last season, while the Bills and Eagles are Super Bowl contenders. The Chicago Bears at home in Week 5 and the Atlanta Falcons on the road in Week 6 also aren't pushovers and will likely be better this season.

Struggles for Howell are inevitable. Though he's entering his second year in the league, he only has one start under his belt and is essentially a rookie. Whether he struggles enough to warrant being benched, or if the team will be patient enough to let him learn as he plays is the big question. 

The pressure on Ron Rivera could lead to him having a quick hook in what's likely a make-or-break season for him. Offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy is under similar pressure as he was brought in to fix an offense that was 24th in points per game last season. 

If the offensive line struggles, it'd be unfair to pin that issue on Howell. While Brissett may be the safer option because of his experience and ability to navigate offensive line troubles, Howell is more likely to get the most out of Washington's offense with his arm and mobility. 

Brissett is a more than capable backup who can start when necessary, but starting him by week seven against the New York Giants would be a disaster. Howell's play earned him the starting job by completing 27 of 37 passes for 265 yards and three touchdowns in two preseason starts. He should be given every opportunity to right the ship. 

If Howell is benched before Week 7, even bigger changes are likely on the horizon for the Commanders. 

Washington begins its season on Sunday when they face the Cardinals at FedEx Field at 1 p.m.