Washington Commanders Head Coach Defends Decision to Start QB Wentz

The Washington Commanders shocked the world when they declared quarterback Carson Wentz the starter for their crucial Week 17 matchup with the Cleveland Browns, and frankly, it blew up in their faces. The Commanders lost 24-10 and gave up their chance at the playoffs. None the less, head coach Ron Rivera told reporters on Monday he has no regrets:

Rivera said he doesn't regret putting Carson Wentz in. "Being 0-2-1 in the last three games really pushed me" to make the change, he said.
— Matthew Paras (@Matthew_Paras) January 2, 2023

According to Rivera, quarterback Taylor Heinicke leading the Commanders to an 0-2-1 record in his last three games necessitated a swap with Wentz. It didn't work out. Wentz was utterly helpless, throwing three interceptions and netting a mere 124 passing yards on 31 dropbacks against the Browns.

Wentz started the first six games of the season for the Commanders, but a finger injury necessitated a stint on injured reserve, which cleared the way for Heinicke to start. Heinicke led the Commanders to an impressive 5-1 record over his first six games, but his play in recent weeks apparently gave the organization second thoughts.

There's nothing to indicate Heinicke could have delivered the Commanders a win on Sunday, but it's hard to believe he would have struggled to the degree Wentz did. Now, the Commanders find themselves eliminated from playoff contention. At least they can comfort themselves with the knowledge that Wentz is not their quarterback of the future.