3 primary factors behind Carson Wentz’s demise with Commanders
By Dean Jones
What were the primary factors behind quarterback Carson Wentz’s eventual demise with the Washington Commanders?
The foregone conclusion was officially confirmed on Monday as the Washington Commanders released Carson Wentz. A move that was almost assured considering his underwhelming production levels and the financial implications involved.
Washington became the latest team to take a chance on Wentz following a high-profile trade from the Indianapolis Colts. After a good start in Week 1, things tailed off dramatically and the former first-round selection was unable to take advantage of one final opportunity late in the campaign before Sam Howell came into the fold.
Cutting Wentz saves the Commanders $26.17 million in cap space, which is a huge sum to better spend elsewhere. The team also parted ways with Bobby McCain, leaving them with $35.34 million in available funds before placing the franchise tag on Daron Payne, according to Over the Cap.
What the future holds for Wentz is unclear. But here are three primary factors behind his eventual demise with the Commanders.
Primary Factor No. 1
Commanders play-calling
Although Carson Wentz didn’t look like the same player that was a potential NFL MVP candidate with the Philadelphia Eagles once upon a time, the Washington Commanders didn’t do him any favors from a play-calling standpoint. Scott Turner was unable to put his signal-caller in the best positions to thrive, which eventually forced Ron Rivera into a different direction – Eric Bieniemy, to be precise.
Had Bieniemy been around last season when Wentz was transitioning, things might have been different. But the player won’t get the chance to work with one of the most respected offensive minds anywhere in the league.