Commanders QB Sam Howell to start vs. 49ers after Jacoby Brissett injury

It has been an interesting few days of quarterback shuffling for the Washington Commanders, as they prepare to face the 49ers in Week 17.

After Commanders coach Ron Rivera announced Wednesday morning that starting quarterback Sam Howell would be benched for Jacoby Brissett against San Francisco on Sunday, uncertainty emerged Friday when Brissett appeared on Washington's injury report as questionable with a hamstring injury.

Now, Howell will start for Washington in the penultimate regular-season game. Additionally, Jake Fromm, who was elevated from the practice squad, will be the backup, and Brissett will serve as the emergency No. 3 quarterback.

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Howell has been benched for Brissett in both of the Commanders' previous two losses. In Week 16, Howell threw for just 56 yards and zero touchdowns with two interceptions in the Commanders' 30-28 loss to the New York Jets, before Brissett entered and went 10-of-13 passing for 100 yards and one touchdown.

With Brissett reportedly sidelined for Sunday's 49ers-Commanders game, the 31-year-old is set to miss what would have been his 80th career game and 49th start. Washington offered a clue at Brissett's eventual status for the game Saturday when the team elevated quarterback Jake Fromm from the practice squad.

Howell starting Sunday rather than Brissett certainly, on paper, benefits the 49ers. The second-year pro leads the NFL in interceptions thrown this season, while veteran Brissett has just 23 career picks to his name and poses a dual threat with his legs when needed.

For San Francisco, guard Aaron Banks (toe) and cornerback Ambry Thomas (knee, hand) will be available despite being listed as questionable with their respective injuries. Meanwhile, the following 49ers players are inactive for Sunday's game: