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Sam Howell’s debut shows promise, but role is still clear after preseason game

ASHBURN — When quarterback Sam Howell returned to the sideline after scoring in Saturday’s preseason game against the Carolina Panthers, the rookie caught some good-natured flak from teammates. They joked that they were unaware Howell had wheels like that after he took off up the middle for a 17-yard touchdown.

Howell, recalling the exchange in the locker room, smiled. Running has always been part of his game.

“I think a lot of people didn’t know I kind of had that in me,” Howell said.

Against the Panthers, Howell looked a lot like the player he was at North Carolina: A strong-armed passer with the ability to extend plays with his legs.