Eagles’ Doug Pederson doesn’t want to send ‘wrong message’ by benching Carson Wentz

Despite throwing two interceptions and taking an inexcusable safety, Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz was never in danger of being benched during Sunday’s 22-17 loss to the Cleveland Browns.

“I did not consider that,” Eagles coach Doug Pederson said. “With the way the game was going and the elements, we were just really a score (away) from putting ourselves back into this football game.”

Sign up for Eagles Extra: Get exclusive news, behind-the-scenes observations and the ability to text directly with reporters

The Eagles used backup quarterback/gadget weapon Jalen Hurts just once during the Week 11 loss, even with Wentz struggling to move the football. The Eagles were 2-of-12 on third down, and Wentz was responsible for surrendering nine points to the Browns’ defense.

Yet, Pederson didn’t want to yank Wentz for Hurts.

“If you get to that spot, where you don’t start him or you bench him, I think you’re sending the wrong message to your football team: the season’s over,” Pederson said. “This sport is bigger than one guy, and we all have a hand in it, and we all need to fix it.”

Wentz is essentially untradable with a $33.8 million dead money cap hit next season, according to Over The Cap. Benching Wentz would not only shake the locker room’s confidence in the quarterback but also create a potential long-term issue.

Wentz is on the books through 2024 and with his $128 million contract extension hitting the Eagles’ salary cap in earnest next offseason, the quarterback and the franchise are likely locked into a relationship for at least the next year.

The Eagles, at 3-6-1, think Wentz gives them the best chance to win games this season, and as long as the team is in a position to win a second consecutive NFC East title, Pederson isn’t likely to pull him off the field.

But, Wentz continues to lead the league in turnovers (18) and sacks (40).

Wentz has also dealt with three major injuries during his career, and the offensive line has failed to protect him from further damage through 10 games. At some point, even if the Eagles don’t want to bench Wentz for his performance, they may need to pull the plug to protect his long-term health.

Following the loss to the Browns, Wentz said he will continue to take chances with the ball and make the backyard-style plays that he’s built his reputation on. It’s that style of play that is partially to blame for his plethora of turnovers and string of groanworthy sacks.

Still, Pederson is standing by Wentz.

“There’s no question about it,” Pederson said. “He’s our starter.”

Get Eagles text messages: Cut through the clutter of social media and text directly with beat writers Mike Kaye and Chris Franklin. Plus, exclusive news and analysis. Sign up now for a free trial.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Mike Kaye may be reached at mkaye@njadvancemedia.com. Tell us your coronavirus story or send a tip here.

Note to readers: if you purchase something through one of our affiliate links we may earn a commission.