Commanders QB Sam Howell Contract: NFL's 'Best Value?'
The Washington Commanders, for some, have made the interesting decision to put all its eggs in Sam Howell's basket for next season.
With only one career game as a starter (a 26-6 win over the Dallas Cowboys), Howell is now the leading man.
After nearly securing a playoff berth last season with Carson Wentz and Taylor Heinicke under center, Howell is expected, from the outside at least, to accomplish what they did.
Being on a fifth-round contract, the Commanders have had cap space to reinforce the roster. But if Howell does produce the goods next season, his contract with Washington could be the most valuable in the NFL according to CBS Sports.
"If Howell is as good as Washington thinks he can be, this is going to be one of the best contracts in the sport for a few years," CBS Sports writes. "Howell has a cap number of $960,400 in 2023, the benefit of having a fifth-round pick as a starting quarterback.
"Howell started just one game, throwing for 169 yards with a touchdown and an interception in a Week 18 victory. Washington likes his talent, and Howell is being groomed by Eric Bieniemy's play-calling as the new offensive coordinator is looking to get the most out of him.
"A good season from Howell, and he'll have the best value in the NFL."
Washington's roster is perhaps being slept on simply due to Howell potentially being the starter, but there is more than enough talent to warrant teams being cautious when playing them.
Jack Del Rio's defense was ranked seventh last season for points allowed in the NFL (20.2), and that was without Chase Young. If he can get back to his rookie form, then Washington's defense could be formidable next season.
For the offense led by Howell, he will have weapons in Terry McLaurin, Jahan Dotson, Curtis Samuel, and running back Brian Robinson Jr. to utilize.
If Howell can lead his team to a playoff appearance or at the least show he is worthy of becoming the Commanders' next franchise quarterback, then having him playing for next to nothing will no doubt be one of the league's "best value" contracts for Washington.
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