Regardless of what happens on the field, this season is already a success for Washington Commanders fans. Dan Snyder is finally gone for good as Josh Harris and his group of owners have taken over the team. This is a moment Washington fans have waited a long time for as the team can finally focus on just football.
On the field, the Commanders will turn to 2nd year quarterback Sam Howell who they selected in the 5th round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Howell impressed in his one and only start in week 18 last year against the Dallas Cowboys. Is Howell the franchise quarterback Washington is hoping for? Let’s break that down further and offer a record prediction for the 2023-2024 season.
The Good
Jonathan Allen has been the anchor on Washington’s loaded defensive line for several years now. It’s hard to believe that the former Alabama DT is still underrated but somehow he is. Allen belongs in the conversation as one of the best defensive tackles in the NFL today. He has always had a knack for rushing the passer but has also improved in the run game as well. Allen has a lethal combination of speed and power that most offensive linemen have trouble dealing with. Allen and Daron Payne have formed one of the best defensive tackle duos in the league.
On the offensive side of the ball wide receiver Terry McLaurin continues to get better despite below-average quarterback play. McLaurin has played with 10 starting quarterbacks in his first 4 years in Washington. Despite that McLaurin continues about his business and doesn’t use that as an excuse. McLaurin had a career-high 1,191 yards in 2022. The hope is Howell gets the full season to show what he can do. If that happens expect a big year for McLaurin.
The Bad
The Commanders offensive line is an area of concern heading into this season. I will be watching this line closely to see how well it can protect its young quarterback. Washington signed former Kansas City Chief Andrew Wylie to take over the RT position. Wylie struggled at times in the preseason but I will hold judgment on him until the season starts.
Elsewhere the Commanders will have a new center as Nick Gates will start at that position. Gates is a brawler who can bring attitude to this line but at times has struggled with the pass rush. Keep an eye on RG Saahdiq Charles. If he can take the next step in his development he has the tools to be a successful guard.
The Prediction
I have the Commanders as one of the surprise teams in the NFL this year. The ownership change will have a big impact on team morale as the fans are coming back in droves. Eric Bieniemy will get this offense to perform at a high level and Sam Howell looks to be the real deal.
2023 Record: (10-7 2nd in the Division)
Leave a comment