Washinton Commanders 2023 Preview: Will Sam Howell Develop On A Talented Roster?

Washington is in a fascinating position right now, as they have a highly talented roster led by a young QB with a ton of potential. This defense has a lot of studs, and the coaching is a suitable fit for their players as well. Drafting Emmanuel Forbes at pick 16 was bold, but he fits what they’re trying to achieve in Washington. Chase Young and Montez Sweat are in contract years, which means both could have stellar seasons. They re-signed Daron Payne, which was an overpay, but it helps them have one of the most dominant D-Lines in football.
The big question with Washington is how Sam Howell will perform. Obviously, he has excellent potential, but he’s also very raw and needs more development. For all we know, Howell could’ve had tremendous growth and comes out and proved the league wrong. He could also look like the player he was before and proves the league right. Ron Rivera’s job depends on Howell succeeding, and it will be fascinating to see how they fare under pressure.

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Grading scale: 20-100.

(+): The player is expected to improve.

Team Overview

Coaching Staff

Ron Rivera is one of the most reliable coaches in the league; he just doesn’t offer much from a schematic point of view. He is a CEO-style head coach and doesn’t run either side of the ball. Rivera would ordinarily use a pro-style offense, but this year he brought in Eric Bienemy, who’s a considerable upgrade. Bienemy coached under Andy Reid in Kansas City and will run a modern pro-spread style offense. That means a lot of motion, quick-hitting passing options, and screens will be used. There will also be a healthy mixture of deep attempts where Howell thrives.
Former head coach Jack Del Rio primarily runs the defense for Washinton. He’s known for using a 3-4 multiple-scheme but tended to play a balanced split-safety scheme last year. In this defense, you’ll see his EDGEs line up in various fashions and many blitzes. Coverage-wise, you can expect a lot of quarters and cover six with very little pressing. The way they drafted would indicate they will be more of an off-coverage team rather than a press-man team. It’s a unique defense, to say the least, but it should bode well with who they have on the roster.

Offense

Overall Offense – 75.6 (32nd)

While this offense is very intriguing, it’s difficult to project success with Sam Howell as the starter. Although, if Howell steps up and develops, this could be a legitimate offense. The surrounding core is exceptionally talented, and it’s a matter if Howell is genuinely ready or not. Terry McLaurin is an excellent X-receiver who takes the top off the defense. Additionally, Curtis Samuel and Jahan Dotson can cause some damage as well.
The big concern with this offense is the run game. Both the run blocking and the backs are average at best. Brian Robinson should ideally be a number two back. If Chris Rodriguez steps up and turns into something special, this could change, but currently, it’s one of the worst run games in the league. The pass-pro, while not phenomenal, is sufficient for Howell to succeed. It’s very exciting to look forward to what this offense can become, but until they prove themselves, they remain this low on the rankings.

Defense

Overall Defense – 80.8 (12th)

This defense is the primary reason Washington doesn’t rank dead last in the league. Unlike most teams, they have a dominant position group being their D-Line. That is a trump card they can rely on. Montez Sweat is an outstanding run defender coming off his best year as a pass rusher. If Chase Young is healthy, expect this to be one of the league’s best pass rushes.
Jonathan Allen had some inconsistencies last year but is still dominant in the middle. Where this defense may struggle is with their Linebackers. Cody Barton was a solid pickup, but Jamin Davis is still a work in progress. He was impressive last season but is still inconsistent, covering the middle of the field. The secondary, while not a liability, isn’t a strength. Jartavius Martin and Emmanuel Forbes have remarkable potential but are still unproven. It’s a unit that will help the team stay moderately competitive, but overall, better defenses exist.

Commanders Schedule

Total Win Projection – 6.0