TAYLOR HEINICKE TAKES QB2 SPOT FOR CHARGERS
Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
WHAT DOES THE TRADE FOR HEINICKE MEAN FOR OTHER BLOT QBS?
Taylor Heinicke was traded to the Los Angeles Chargers this past Thursday in exchange for a conditional sixth-round pick. The veteran QB has had his fair share of starting experience through his 8 years in the NFL. Now heading into his 9th year, and 8th team, Heinicke is attempting to secure a QB 2 spot for the remainder of the season.
Heinicke knew his chances were close to none on retaining the QB 2 position back in Atlanta with the huge free agent signing of Kirk Cousins this offseason. Along with the signing of Cousins, the Falcons made an obscure decision to draft Michael Penix Jr. with the 8th pick in the 2024 NFL draft. NFL media across the country were shcoked with the decision, but no more than Heinicke.
Heinicke was now behind an elite veteran QB in Cousins and a rising future QB in Penix Jr. The QB would find a way to make the 53 man roster as the third quarterback, playing time was slim and so were reps.
After finding out he made it on the 53 man roster, Heinicke was told hours later that he was to be traded to the Chargers. According to Heinicke, he was watching a Michigan documentary about sign stealing under head coach Jim Harbaugh. The QB stated “I go home, and I'm celebrating with my girlfriend. We're actually watching a Michigan documentary.” He was told by new head coach Raheem Morris that he had been traded.
Heinicke will be taking over for Easton Stick who had struggled in the preseason. Jim Harbaugh and the Chargers community are aware of Stick’s previous performances, and now Heinicke who is capable of commanding an offense will be right behind Justin Herbert in 2024.
