Commanders QB to Miss Season Opener Against Bucs

Carson Wentz to start instead as Heinicke to undergo knee procedure

Heinicke's injury is not expected to be long-term

Taylor Heinicke will undergo a minor surgical procedure on his left knee, Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera announced Monday, and will miss the team's season opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The procedure will take place Tuesday and has been scheduled for several weeks, Rivera said.

Carson Wentz will start in Heinicke's place in Week 1, Rivera said.

Heinicke, 29, started 15 games for Washington last season, leading the Commanders to a 7-8 record in those contests. He completed 64.5% of his passes for 3,419 yards with 20 touchdowns and 15 interceptions.

Wentz, 30, was acquired by Washington in a trade with the Indianapolis Colts in March. He started 17 games for the Colts last season, completing 62.4% of his passes for 3,563 yards with 27 touchdowns and seven interceptions.

The Commanders will open the regular season on Sept. 11 at home against the Buccaneers.