Commanders WR Terry McLaurin praises QB Sam Howell
Terry McLaurin has a lot of confidence in Sam Howell. The Washington Commanders receiver says the young quarterback has a lot of poise entering his second NFL season.
In a video shared by Arye Pulli of The Sports Place, McLaurin spoke highly of Howell during training camp. He’s been incredibly impressed with the former North Carolina star’s attitude and poise, even in adversity.
“Yeah, to be honest, you really don’t even see him get flustered,” McLaurin said. “Even when he’s had a few rough patches during practice, he doesn’t hang his head, he’s not yelling, cussing, things like that. He stays pretty even-keeled, which is really unique for a young guy like that.
“Not only that, I think that struck me in the Dallas game because we had a turnover, but he still wasn’t afraid to push the ball down the field and I think with this being a passing league, you still gotta stay aggressive. It’s really cool to see a young guy who’s not afraid to continue to get his guys catches.”
Howell’s lone appearance during his rookie campaign came against the Cowboys in 2022. He completed 11-of-19 passes for 169 yards with one touchdown and an interception. The rookie also rushed for 35 yards and an additional rushing touchdown. Washington defeated Dallas 26-6 in the January contest.
In training camp, Howell and Jacoby Brissett are battling for the No. 1 spot on the depth chart. Brissett is the veteran but Howell likely has the higher ceiling. And he already has the vote of confidence from McLaurin.
Sam Howell was a fifth-round pick in 2022
The Commanders selected Howell out of North Carolina in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. He was not expected to make an immediate impact in Washington.
But the former Tar Heel gets his opportunity in training camp. And if he’s getting such high praise from a veteran receiver like McLaurin, he must be doing something right.
Obviously, Howell still has plenty of growth ahead of him. Mistakes will happen. But if he maintains a level head and doesn’t get overly animated, he could provide the Commanders with a sense of stability under center.
It should be an interesting battle to keep an eye on out in the nation’s capital. The race between Howell and Brissett should also increase the intrigue level for the Commanders during the 2023 NFL preseason, as well.