This is an excellent development that puts my previous comments into question.

I have been saying a lot that I think Howell has basically 1 more year and that’ll only happen if EB stays OC (unlikely) or is made HC. But, if Ben likes Howell then that changes things. If Ben was made HC that would probably give Howell two years to prove himself. That wouldn’t stop him from bringing in someone to compete, but it would give Howell a chance.

This doesn’t change the other names being floated around right now imo. But Ben is the one I want the most so I think this is a HUGE development.

Also, just in case anyone isn’t clear on my thoughts I like Howell, but used to like him way more. I celebrated his pick. I felt like he was a Round 2 talent that fell into the 5th. Since week 1 though my confidence in him has dropped. Every week I feel like I see him miss open guys, hold the ball too long, make bad decisions, and get himself sacked (goes hand-in-hand with the previous 2 I know). Has he shown flashes? Yeah, but I do not see any reason to give him the keys for the future yet. I think the only reason he has such high stats is because of EB. EB gives him the opportunities and guys get open (especially Terry) but Howell never sees it.

I’d be happy if Howell cements himself, but until he can win games I won’t put any trust into him.