Eagles announce Wentz as Week 1 starter

The Carson Wentz era has begun.

Philadelphia Eagles head coach Doug Pederson announced Monday that the rookie quarterback will start his team's Week 1 game against the Cleveland Browns.

The announcement puts to rest any doubt that Wentz's injured ribs would force him to miss time. It also ends the notion that the second overall pick would "redshirt" his rookie season behind presumed starter Sam Bradford (whom the Eagles traded away over the weekend) and veteran backup Chase Daniel.

"Everybody feels this kid is ready to go. We drafted this kid to take over the reigns," Pederson told reporters.

The Eagles' decision to trade Bradford to the Minnesota Vikings over the weekend likely accelerated Wentz's path to the starting job.

Though Pederson hinted that Wentz might have benefited from a little more developmental time, saying, "would it have been ideal for him to play later than sooner? Sure," he reiterated that the Eagles believe Wentz is ready for the big time.

"The stage is not too big for him," Pederson said. "He can handle this."

Wentz will be the first rookie quarterback ever to start for the Eagles in Week 1.