Commanders Release QB Wentz

The Washington Commanders announced on Monday that they have released quarterback Carson Wentz from their roster.

We have released the following players:
-- S Bobby McCain
-- QB Carson Wentz
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) February 27, 2023

The Commanders, who traded for Wentz in a deal with the Colts nearly a year ago, gave up a second-rounder, a third-rounder, and a conditional third-round pick for the 30-year-old signal caller in what concluded to be just a short one season relationship.

Releasing Wentz from Washington's books saves them $26.17 million in cap space, and a total of $28.42 million on Monday with the removal of safety Bobby McCain as well, per Spotrac.

Wentz, the former second overall pick in 2016, departs his third team in the last three seasons. After playing in Philly for his first five NFL seasons, he was traded to the Colts in 2020 where he spent just one season as the starter failing to reach the playoffs, and now exits Washington within just one year into his deal that extended until 2024.

The Commanders went just 2-5 in games that Wentz started before they opted to start Taylor Heninicke mid-season instead, and they ultimately decided to let their rookie QB Sam Howell play as starter to conclude their last game of the 2022-23 season.

After his recent blunders, Wentz will likely not be looked upon as the starter he once was in the NFL, but it is probable that he will get offers from potential teams for backup roles this offseason as he hits free agency.

Wentz completed 172 out of 276 passes for 1755 yards, throwing 11 touchdowns, and nine interceptions in his sole season as a Commander.