Commanders' Terry McLaurin 'Encouraging' QB Sam Howell Amid Struggles

Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell has been benched in back-to-back weeks.

Sam Howell's struggles haven't prevented his teammates from being there for him. 

Washington Commanders (4-11) receiver Terry McLaurin spoke about the second-year quarterback's ups and downs, noting that it has been tough for the entire team. He also noted how he has Howell's back while he endures the first big slump of his NFL career.

Sam Howell (14) and Terry McLaurin (17) in Week 18 of the 2022 season vs. the Dallas Cowboys / Geoff Burke, USA Today

 "I haven’t talked about his confidence, him and I, just more so me encouraging him," McLaurin said. "Letting him know that I got his back, and I know he appreciates that. It’s been tough for him, it’s been a tough year for all of us, and I still believe in the ability that he has. He’s shown a lot of great things this year, and if he is back out there next week, we’re going to keep chopping the wood and try to help him out as much as we can. You know, it’s kind of hard for me to speak for his confidence, but I try to do the best I can to keep him uplifted."

After a strong start to his first year as a starting quarterback, things have turned sideways for Howell in his last five games during the Commanders' six-game losing streak. Howell has thrown just two touchdowns compared to eight interceptions, which has led to him being benched in back-to-back weeks for Jacoby Brissett. 

On Sunday against the New York Jets, Howell completed 6 of 22 passes for 56 yards and two interceptions and had a 1.7 quarterback rating.

'Control My Mindset!' Howell Reacts to Washington's Struggles

The Commanders haven't announced who will be the starting quarterback for the rest of the season, though the discrepancy between the offense's success with Howell vs. Brissett has been glaring. Brissett has led five scoring drives in his two appearances off the bench vs. the Los Angeles Rams and Jets. If Howell remains the starter, he may be playing for his future in Washington in the final two games.

Washington faces the San Francisco 49ers (11-4) on Sunday at FedEx Field at 1 p.m. ET.