Commanders activate backup QB Carson Wentz from IR

The Washington Commanders activated Carson Wentz from injured reserve Monday to serve as Taylor Heinicke's primary backup.

Wentz landed on IR on Oct. 22 and was designated to return to practice Nov. 23. He hasn't played since sustaining a fractured ring finger on his right (throwing) hand in a Week 6 win at Chicago. The injury required surgery.

Heinicke has guided the Commanders to a 5-1-1 record since taking over and head coach Ron Rivera has said the plan is for Wentz to serve as QB2.

Washington (7-5-1) returns from a bye week to host NFC East rival New York Giants (7-5-1) this Sunday.

Wentz, 29, completed 62.1 percent of his passes for 1,489 yards with 10 touchdowns and six interceptions in six starts (2-4 record) this season.

Washington acquired Wentz in a March 9 trade with the Indianapolis Colts. The No. 2 overall pick in 2016, he has a 46-44-1 record as a starter with 150 TD passes for the Philadelphia Eagles (2016-20), Colts and Commanders.

Heinicke, 29, has completed 61.8 percent of his throws for 1,444 yards with nine touchdowns and five picks so far this season.