The Washington Commanders designated quarterback Carson Wentz to return from injured reserve Wednesday, clearing him to practice.
Wentz, who fractured his finger in a win over the Chicago Bears in Week 6, missed five games. With Taylor Heinicke under center, Washington won four of those five games and sits at 6-5 on the season.
Head coach Ron Rivera spoke with both quarterbacks last week to inform them that the team will keep Heinicke as the starter moving forward.
Wentz completed 62% of his passes for 1,489 yards with 10 touchdowns and six interceptions this season before his injury. Rookie Sam Howell will remain Heinicke’s backup this week while Wentz continues to recover, but once fully healthy, he will be Heinicke’s backup.
QB Carson Wentz has been given a return to practice designation
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) November 23, 2022
As for Wentz, he said he feels really good.
Carson Wentz on his finger: "Feels really good. I've been throwing for two weeks now."
Wentz said he felt it in the Bears game but "adrenaline's a heck of a thing." Said he feared it was broken post-game, and x-rays confirmed it.
— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) November 23, 2022
The Commanders host the Atlanta Falcons Sunday in a critical NFC game for a pair of potential playoff hopefuls.