Commanders' Rivera: Howell did what we expected him to do vs. Ravens

Just days after Ron Rivera named Sam Howell the Commanders' starting quarterback for the 2023 season, the Washington head coach left Monday's preseason game feeling validated by his decision.

"I thought Sam did exactly what we were expecting him to do," Rivera said postgame, according to Kevin Patra of NFL Network. "He went out, executed, took control of the offense, took control of the huddle, and did a good job at the line of scrimmage."

Howell completed 19 of 25 passes in the first half while recording zero turnovers and two scores, including a touchdown throw to Dyami Brown to give the Commanders a halftime lead. The passer's performance helped snap the Baltimore Ravens' 24-game preseason win streak.

"I just think, offensively, I think we did some good things, put some good drives together," Howell. "Obviously, there's some stuff to clean up, some sacks, both, I think. ... I got to do a better job with that stuff. We'll clean it up."

Howell beat out Jacoby Brissett for the starting job after playing in just one contest last campaign. The second-year passer completed 11 passes for 169 yards with two total touchdowns in the Commanders' final game of the season against the Dallas Cowboys.

"I think I've grown a lot," Howell said.

The North Carolina product was selected in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Washington kicks off its season Sept. 10 against the Arizona Cardinals.