3 easiest salary cap decisions the Commanders can make in 2023

Commanders can release Carson Wentz

• Cap savings – $26.17 million

Releasing Carson Wentz is seemingly a foregone conclusion. After a hugely disappointing campaign with the Washington Commanders, everyone should be in consensus agreement that this chapter should be closed after just one season.

Acquiring Wentz from the Indianapolis Colts via trade was a major gamble that didn’t pan out. Playing the blame game at this stage is moot – what’s important for the Commanders is moving forward with Eric Bieniemy and an offense that could be set for huge strides if the right reinforcements arrive in free agency or the 2023 NFL Draft.

It appears as if Sam Howell is going to get a shot next season. If it works out, then the Commanders have a cheap rookie contract to build around over the next few years before a bumper extension comes his way.

As for Wentz, cutting him loose comes with no dead-cap implications and an extra $26.17 million to spend. What comes after that for the former North Dakota State standout is uncertain, but that’s not Washington’s primary concern at this juncture.

Wentz will likely get another gig elsewhere, even if it might be from a prominent backup position initially. Last season was his final chance to prove he could return to the form of old and be productive under center, but it didn’t work out as anyone hoped.

Now that Bieniemy is on board, Howell could be the man that benefits most. Something that brings a significant level of intrigue this offseason and when the regular season commences.