He only started one game in his rookie season, but in 2023, the Washington Commanders are Sam Howell’s team. The second-year quarterback has them at 2-2 and competing each week.
Through four games, Howell has passed for 961 yards, four touchdowns, and five interceptions. He adds a 67.1% completion rate and 81.3 passer rating. He passed for 169 yards, one touchdown, and one interception in his lone start of 2022.
After beating out Jacoby Brissett, the North Carolina legend has a chip on his shoulder and is out to prove a point.
Before his days in the NFL, Howell built his character during his days in the backyard. He wouldn’t be here without his parents.
Sam Howell: visually appealing ball thrower pic.twitter.com/ds3mcqyOiy
— Mike Renner (@mikerenner_) September 19, 2023
Sam Howell’s Background
Howell grew up in Monroe, North Carolina, and went to Sun Valley High School. He was born on Sept. 16, 2000, to Duke and Amy Howell. Duke was a football coach and his offensive coordinator in high school. Mr. Howell was key in coaching his son during his childhood and teenage years.
Howell’s mother has been one of his biggest lifelong supporters throughout his career.
Howell committed to and signed with the North Carolina Tar Heels on Dec. 19, 2018. He played three seasons with the Tar Heels and passed for 10,283 yards, 92 touchdowns, and 23 interceptions. He won the ACC Rookie of the Year award as a freshman.
Howell decided to forgo his senior season and was ultimately selected in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft with the 144th overall pick by the Commanders.
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Howell’s family heritage goes back to his grandparents, who met in South Korea before moving to North Carolina, where he and his parents were raised. His grandfather, Bruce Howell, met his grandmother, Han, as a serviceman stationed after the Korean War.
Unfortunately, Howell’s grandmother was widowed after the couple had moved to North Carolina.
What Is Howell’s Diet?
No, it’s not a joke. Sam Howell does not eat any meat besides chicken. He’s claimed he has never tried a burger or a steak and won’t eat seafood. His go-to order? Chicken tenders.
“People give me a hard time, but the only meat I eat is chicken,” Howell said.
His diet started when he was a kid and just hasn’t changed. He’s admitted, though, that he wishes he enjoyed all types of meat.
Stop asking Sam Howell bout the chicken pic.twitter.com/bUgeMjcE6x
— Kay Adams (@heykayadams) August 3, 2023