Commanders to start Heinicke at QB vs. Packers

Washington Commanders quarterback Taylor Heinicke will start Sunday's game against the Green Bay Packers, head coach Ron Rivera announced Tuesday.

Rookie Sam Howell, whom the Commanders drafted in the fifth round, will serve as Heinicke's backup.

"We think (Howell) is on track, but Taylor right now gives us the best opportunity to be successful," Rivera said Tuesday, according to Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post.

Washington was forced to make a change under center after Carson Wentz fractured the ring finger of his throwing hand last week. Wentz, who posted a 2-4 record to begin the season, is reportedly expected to miss four-to-six weeks.

Heinicke appeared in 16 games with Washington last year, including 15 starts. He completed 65% of his passes for 3,419 yards and 20 touchdowns against 15 interceptions while posting a 7-8 record. He also rushed for 330 yards and one score.

The Commanders' offense has struggled in 2022, ranking only 29th in the NFL with 17 points per game.