Rookies Boost Commanders' Performance; Howell's QB Future Looking Bright at Midseason

Rookie players show significant growth, with Sam Howell impressing as QB1 as defensive tackles Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne fall below expectations; Washington Commanders remain in NFC wild-card contention at midseason.

• Rookie Sam Howell further cemented his place as Washington Commanders' QB1 with back-to-back 300-yard passing games, ranking second in the league in passing yards (2,471) and fourth in passing yards per game (274.6).
• Despite being tied with a league-high nine interceptions, Howell displayed a strong ability to move past poor performances and maintain consistent productivity, signaling positive indicators for his future as a potential franchise quarterback.
• Changes in the offensive line, including Chris Paul and Tyler Larsen taking over left guard and center positions respectively, have contributed significantly to the boost in the Commanders' offensive performance.
• Despite commanding lucrative contracts and delivering strong performances in previous seasons, defensive tackles Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne have failed to produce significant results this year, raising questions about their roles and the Commanders' investment in new ends.
• Rookies Emmanuel Forbes and Quan Martin have shown promising growth, with Forbes reclaiming his role as cornerback after initial struggles, and Martin displaying versatility in multiple positions in the secondary.

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