Commanders Are Carson Wentz's Last Chance
By Matt De Saro
It took the Indianapolis Colts just one season to move on from Carson Wentz. Just one season to figure out what many of us have suspected all along. Maybe Wentz just isn't cut out to be a starting quarterback in the NFL.
Now it’s Washington’s turn to roll the dice on Wentz and try to resurrect his career for the second time as a 29-year-old. I actually think it was a miracle that the Colts were able to unload Wentz and get back a decent package in return. Apparently, the market value for Wentz is two third-round picks and a swap of second-round picks in this year’s draft. So, basically nothing. But, technically Wentz is an upgrade for Washington, a team that showed a surprising amount of potential last season.
One thing that I didn’t realize about Wentz is that he’s not only a problem on the field but also has a history of locker room issues. When he was on the Eagles, teammates criticized him anonymously for being a selfish player and that he put his interests above those of the team.
Wentz again clashed with teammates and coaches in Indy. His refusal to get vaccinated for COVID-19 caused a lot of negativity. Especially after contracting the illness which led to the Colts losing their last two games and missing the playoffs. Frank Reich, who pushed the Colts to sign Wentz, told reporters last week that he needed a long-term solution under center and Wentz wasn’t it. This is a lesson that Washington will soon learn.
As I see it, this is it for Wentz as a starting quarterback. Went’s very own version of Last Chance U. He might get two years to prove himself, but if he doesn’t, I see clipboard in his future.
It's crazy that, despite all of his issues, Wentz is the best QB that Washington has had in years. Since Kirk Cousins left in 2017 to be specific. But I think the Commanders are making a huge mistake. The Colts had a top 10 offensive line and still, Wentz couldn’t produce.
Washington is a good team but their offensive line is nowhere near as good as the Colts. With so much going against both Wentz and Washington, I wouldn’t be surprised if this franchise is in the exact same spot next year.