There appears to be a new development in the Washington Commanders building.
No, this doesn’t have anything to do with the investigation into Dan Snyder and the entire Commanders front office, but rather, a developing story in the quarterback room.
Taylor Heinicke was set to start on Week 18 but instead told the coaches that he believes rookie Sam Howell deserves to get the full start, sources tell @JFowlerESPN https://t.co/rzkAmfKZ23
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) January 4, 2023
After it was announced that Taylor Heinicke would start on Sunday, effectively benching Carson Wentz, many NFL pundits believed that this was the end of the road for Wentz and that Heinicke would be their future at the position.
However, shortly after the announcement of Heinicke starting, reports surfaced about rookie Sam Howell getting his first career start, which was later confirmed by the team.
We’re now finding out, that this was not a coach’s decision, but rather, that of Heinicke.
Through the rapport that can be seen, both on the field and off of it, Heinicke appears to be incredibly well-liked within the Commanders organization and seems to be a great teammate.
If this report is true, that Heinicke vouched for Howell to start this week, he will have that much more respect within the Commanders locker room.
The Commanders’ game on Sunday doesn’t mean much this season, as they are eliminated from playoff contention.
Why not roll out Howell, and see what the kid can do?
Howell has not played a single minute in an NFL game during his rookie season and will have a great opportunity to get first-team, real playing time on Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys.
The Cowboys have a staunch defensive front, so Howell will certainly get tested early.
NEXT: Commanders Insider Reveals Intriguing Week 18 Update