Tar Heels in NFL: Trubisky plays well on 28th birthday despite poor blocking; Howell inconsistent; Smith, Surratt play well

While quarterback Mitch Trubisky was pretty effective on his 28th birthday Saturday despite playing behind a struggling offensive line, Sam Howell was more inconsistent after an impressive NFL exhibition debut. In Pittsburgh’s 16–15 Saturday victory over Jacksonville, Trubisky completed 5 of 8 passes for 60 yards, including a 29-yard gain, and had a 10-yard run in his 15 snaps. Although he had no interceptions, he also had no touchdown passes and an 85.4 passer rating. His three drives only produced a field goal, and one drive was a three-and-out.

Tar Heels in NFL: Williams, Trubisky, Ezeudu projected starters; Hollins turning heads; 29 UNC alums in camps

Bolstered by eight rookies — three with the New York Giants — the number of Tar Heels in NFL camps is a mammoth 29 players, with some fighting for roster spots, many battling to move up the depth charts and others projected to start. Some of the headliners in camps have been running back Javonte Williams, quarterback Mitch Trubisky, wide receiver Mack Hollins and offensive guard Joshua Ezeudu.

Commanders pick Howell in fifth round; 4 Tar Heels drafted

Sam Howell’s interminable wait finally ended at the start of the fifth round on Saturday afternoon when the Washington Commanders made the Carolina quarterback the 144th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft and the sixth quarterback selected. The former Redskins may have just got one of the steals of the draft in getting the No. 34 player on the Pro Football Focus big board. A year ago, Howell was considered to be a sure first-round pick. Since 2019, Howell has PFP’s top grade in fourth quarters at 92.4. “God is so faithful,” Howell wrote on Twitter. “So excited for this next chapter. Let’s go to work!”