As I logged into Twitter on Sunday evening, I noticed Washington Commanders rookie quarterback Sam Howell was trending. When you initially see someone trending, you immediately search for the reason.
After a quick search, I quickly realized there were no new developments surrounding Howell. Washington fans were going back and forth on Twitter about why Howell should start for the Commanders.
All of this on Washington’s bye week. The Commanders have won six of their previous eight games, with all but one of those games started by Taylor Heinicke.
Yet, there is chatter about Washington’s fifth-round rookie.
Why Sunday? No doubt, Commanders’ fans were watching the San Francisco 49ers demolish Tom Brady’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 35-7, behind rookie quarterback — and Mr. Irrelevant — Brock Purdy. Purdy wasn’t just along for the ride; he was outstanding. Purdy completed 16 of 21 passes for 185 yards with two touchdowns.
One Washington fan on Twitter had the following to say:
“Me watching Brock Purdy knowing Sam Howell is equally capable or greater.”
First, no two situations are the same. Purdy is playing for a loaded San Francisco offense. The 49ers have an outstanding offensive line anchored by Washington legend Trent Williams, and San Francisco has elite talent at every skill position. Next, Purdy is coached by the brightest offensive mind in the NFL, Kyle Shanahan.
Finally, this was only Purdy’s fifth appearance — and first start. In two of those appearances, Purdy didn’t even attempt a pass.
Let’s slow down.
Purdy may eventually turn into a quality NFL quarterback. However, this isn’t about Purdy.
Does Howell have more physical talent and a higher upside than Purdy? Sure. Was Howell impressive in the preseason? Yes. But why would head coach Ron Rivera turn to a rookie quarterback when his team is in the thick of a playoff race?
For once, the Commanders are in a position to develop a young passer. Perhaps Howell is never the man in Washington. Maybe he is. He has the ability. But let’s not assume that Howell will replicate — or even surpass — Purdy’s early production just because he has a bigger arm or is more athletic.
If the Commanders were 4-9 or 5-8 at the bye week, Howell should absolutely be in the mix to start Washington’s final four games. That’s not the case.
Taylor Heinicke should remain Washington’s quarterback for the remainder of the season. If Heinicke can’t go, Carson Wentz should be under center unless the Commanders completely fall apart and are eliminated from postseason contention.
Fans should relax and enjoy the ride and not make every Heinicke start a referendum on his future.
