4 Commanders players that shouldn’t be back in 2023

Carson Wentz – Commanders QB

When the Washington Commanders traded for Carson Wentz, it represented one final chance for the quarterback to prove beyond all doubt he could become a productive NFL starter once again. It also gave the organization a short-term option capable of filling the void until Sam Howell was ready to assume command under center.

What came next was something many expected but hoped wouldn’t occur. Wentz was erratic, lacking confidence, and just couldn’t get anything going before injury struck and Taylor Heinicke replaced him.

This switch brought the Commanders back to life. Heinicke might not have the elite traits, but everyone got behind the player en route to some encouraging performances to restore respectability in Washington.

Despite this upturn in production, head coach Ron Rivera gave Wentz another shot when he was healthy enough to return. Something the North Dakota State product was unable to capitalize on and the former No. 1 overall selection gave way to Howell in Week 18.

The trade was a flop, to put it mildly. However, the Commanders set up his contract to ensure this could become a one-year rental if the worst happened.

Releasing Wentz comes with no dead money and cap savings of $26.17 million. This looks like an absolute no-brainer all things considered.