Carson Wentz Nov 14, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Carson Wentz (11) during warmups against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

The Washington Commanders announced Wednesday that quarterback Carson Wentz has been designated to return to practice this week. This move starts the 21-day clock for his return to the active roster following a stint on Injured Reserve.

Wentz was placed on IR after he fractured his finger against the Chicago Bears in a Week 6 win. The writing had been on the wall about the starter potentially getting benched before the injury due to a poor start to the season. Veteran quarterback Taylor Heinicke was installed as the starter following Wentz’s injury and after the 29-year-old led the team to a 23-10 victory over the Houston Texans, his fourth win in five games, head coach Ron Rivera announced that it was Taylor’s team now regardless of Wentz’s status.

“We’re gonna go with Taylor,” Rivera said. “We’ll work with Carson and see where Carson is, as far as whether he’s ready to be the backup.”

Wentz still has a ways to go to return to the active roster. During this 21-day window, Washington can activate him at any point. However, at the end of that period, they’ll have to decide if he’s returning to the active roster or if he’s going back on IR.

Regardless of what happens, it sure sounds like Wentz’s stint in Washington will be short. The NFL world had some strong reactions to the news that he was designated to return to the team for now.

Regardless of whether or not he plays again for the team, it at least sounds like he’s still a good teammate off the field.

[Commanders]

About Sean Keeley

Along with writing for Awful Announcing and The Comeback, Sean is the Editorial Strategy Director for Comeback Media. Previously, he created the Syracuse blog Troy Nunes Is An Absolute Magician and wrote 'How To Grow An Orange: The Right Way to Brainwash Your Child Into Rooting for Syracuse.' He has also written non-Syracuse-related things for SB Nation, Curbed, and other outlets. He currently lives in Seattle where he is complaining about bagels. Send tips/comments/complaints to sean@thecomeback.com.