- Taylor Heinicke
- #4
- Team ATL
- Pos QB
- Status AActive
-
Accepts pay cut
Heinicke took a pay cut in March to stay with the Falcons, reducing his $5 million base salary to $1.21 million, ESPN.com's Michael Rothstein reports.
Analysis: He also converted a $1.32 million roster bonus to a signing bonus and agreed to remove the $40,000 per-game roster bonuses from his contract. He's left with $2.53 million in real-money compensation for the second and final year of his deal, with a $4.53 million cap hit. Heinicke is in excellent position for the backup QB role behind Kirk Cousins, after Desmond Ridder was traded to Arizona for Rondale Moore in mid-March. The Falcons still have time to bring in competition, but it may not be a…read more
Published: Tue, Apr 2 at 6:21am by Rotowire.com
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Future in Atlanta murky
Heinicke is poised to drop to No. 3 on Atlanta's depth chart with the team slated to sign Kirk Cousins (Achilles), Michael Rothstein of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Cutting Heinicke would save the Falcons roughly $7 million against the cap, with just $2 million in dead money, a move that seems like a no-brainer in the wake of Cousins' signing. Even if Atlanta is concerned about its new franchise quarterback's Week 1 availability, the team still has Desmond Ridder under contract on his affordable rookie deal. Heinicke finished 2023 as the starter over Ridder, but both signal-callers were ultimately unimpressive. The Falcons will avoid paying Heinicke a $1.3…read more
Published: Tue, Mar 12 at 1:32pm by Rotowire.com
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Listed as emergency QB
Heinicke (ankle) is inactive for Sunday's matchup against the Saints, but he'll operate as the emergency quarterback, Tori McElhaney of the Falcons' official site reports.
Analysis: Heinicke was deemed questionable after logging three limited sessions during Week 18 prep but will ultimately be inactive for the regular-season finale due to an ankle injury he aggravated versus Chicago in Week 17. He started the season as Desmond Ridder's backup, but Heinicke eventually claimed a starting role and appeared in five games this season, completing 54.5 percent of his passes for 890 yards with five touchdowns and four interceptions. Ridder will start versus New Orleans, while…read more
Published: Sun, Jan 7 at 8:41am by Rotowire.com
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Aiming to play Sunday
Heinicke (ankle) remains questionable for Sunday's game against the Saints but is hopeful to play, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Heinicke exited late in last week's loss to the Bears after aggravating a left ankle injury, but he was able to practice in a limited fashion Wednesday through Friday to build optimism about his chances of playing in the regular-season finale. The signal-caller is still seemingly being viewed as a game-time decision ahead of Sunday's 1 p.m. ET kickoff, as the Falcons want to see how he fares from a mobility standpoint in a pregame warmup before signing off on him making his fifth start of the…read more
Published: Sun, Jan 7 at 6:15am by Rotowire.com
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Gets questionable tag for Week 18
The Falcons list Heinicke (ankle) as questionable for Sunday's game against the Saints, Tori McElhaney of the Falcons' official site reports.
Analysis: Heinicke has been a limited participant in practices this week after he was forced out of this past Sunday's loss to Chicago after aggravating a left ankle injury. The 30-year-old could be shaping up as a true game-day decision for Week 18, as head coach Arthur Smith said the quarterback would go through a workout Sunday before a determination on his status is made ahead of the game's 1 p.m. ET kickoff. If Heinicke can't play in New Orleans, Desmond Ridder would presumably step in as the…read more
Published: Fri, Jan 5 at 10:07am by Rotowire.com
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Another limited practice
Heinicke (ankle) practiced in a limited fashion Thursday, Amna Subhan of the Falcons' official site reports.
Analysis: Heinicke exited late during this past Sunday's loss at Chicago, and the reason for the decision was revealed to be an ankle injury by coach Arthur Smith on Monday, per Tori McElhaney of the team's official site. Atlanta is hoping to know by Friday whether or not Heinicke will be able to play Sunday in New Orleans, but consecutive capped sessions to kick off the week has yet to shed any light on the situation. In the meantime, the team is preparing Desmond Ridder to start if needed this weekend,…read more
Published: Thu, Jan 4 at 1:19pm by Rotowire.com
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In line for limited practice
Heinicke (ankle) will be a limited participant at practice Wednesday, Michael Rothstein of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: The fact that Heinicke is slated to practice in any capacity to open Week 18 prep offers hope that the quarterback could play in Sunday's regular-season finale against the Saints. However, ift Heinicke is deemed unavailable this weekend while he tends to a left ankle injury, Desmond Ridder would draw the start in the Falcons' must-win contest.
Published: Wed, Jan 3 at 8:50am by Rotowire.com
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Could miss Week 18 with ankle issue
Heinicke still is dealing with an ankle injury but will try to be ready to play Week 18 against New Orleans, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Per Tori McElhaney of the Falcons' official site, Heinicke was pulled in the fourth quarter of Sunday's loss to Chicago because he aggravated the ankle injury that limited him in practice throughout the week. Head coach Arthur Smith said the quarterback "will do everything he can to play" against the Saints this Sunday, but there appears to be some doubt about his ability to suit up for that contest, and the team is planning to prepare Desmond Ridder to play "just in case." Heinicke's level of…read more
Published: Mon, Jan 1 at 11:23am by Rotowire.com
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Benched late in Week 17 loss
Heinicke completed 10 of 29 passes for 163 yards with one touchdown and three interceptions while adding four rushes for 46 yards and a score in the Falcons' 37-17 loss to the Bears on Sunday.
Analysis: Heinicke's highly inefficient afternoon was punctuated by constant mistakes, although he was able to partly salvage his fantasy afternoon with his two scores. The journeyman signal-caller hit Tyler Allgeier for a 75-yard touchdown on which the running back did a great deal of the work, and he added a 24-yard scoring run early in the fourth quarter. However, after his third interception led to Chicago's final touchdown, Heinicke was given an early seat in favor of Desmond Ridder. With Atlanta…read more
Published: Mon, Jan 1 at 12:30am by Rotowire.com
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Ready to take on Bears
Heinicke (ankle) was a full participation in Friday's practice and does not carry an injury designation into Sunday's game against the Bears, Tori McElhaney of the Falcons' official site reports.
Analysis: Heinicke was limited during practice Wednesday and Thursday due to an ankle injury, but he's now cleared and fully on track to start on the road in Chicago. He'll look to take advantage of a vulnerable Bears secondary after having gone 23-for-33 passing for 229 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions against the Colts in Week 16.
Published: Fri, Dec 29 at 10:03am by Rotowire.com
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Stays limited Thursday
Heinicke (ankle) practiced in a limited fashion Thursday, Amna Subhan of the Falcons' official site reports.
Analysis: Heinicke is operating with practice restrictions during Week 17 prep due to an ankle issue, and he'll have one more opportunity Friday to get back to full participation, at which point Atlanta may tag him with a designation ahead of Sunday's game at Chicago. If he's able to suit up, he'll be looking to build upon the 229 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions on 23-for-33 passing that he put together during this past Sunday's win against the Colts.
Published: Thu, Dec 28 at 1:43pm by Rotowire.com
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Dealing with ankle issue
Heinicke was a limited practice participant Wednesday due to an ankle injury, Amna Subhan of the Falcons' official site reports.
Analysis: In his second stint as the Falcons' starting quarterback this season, Heinicke led the team to a 29-10 win this past Sunday against the Colts while completing 23 of 33 pass attempts for 229 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions to go with two carries for 10 yards. Wednesday's practice restrictions may be maintenance-based, but his status now will be watched as the week goes on to get a sense of if he may head into Sunday's game at Chicago with an injury designation.
Published: Wed, Dec 27 at 1:27pm by Rotowire.com
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Impressive in return to top job
Heinicke completed 22 of 33 passes for 229 yards with a touchdown and no interceptions in the Falcons' 29-10 win over the Colts on Sunday. He also rushed twice for 10 yards.
Analysis: A competent, mistake-free performance in which multiple pass catchers were featured as part of a balanced attack was likely exactly what head coach Arthur Smith was hoping for when reinstalling Heinicke into the starting role, making the decision a very prudent one for at least this week. Heinicke spread the ball around to nine different targets and kept Atlanta a step ahead for the majority of the afternoon, connecting with Kyle Pitts for a 24-yard touchdown on his one scoring toss of the day…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 24 at 1:29pm by Rotowire.com
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Named starter rest of season
Head coach Arthur Smith announced Wednesday that the Falcons plan to have Heinicke serve as their starting quarterback for the remainder of the 2023 season, Michael Rothstein of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Assuming Heinicke doesn't lose the job due to injury, he'll wrap up the regular season with starts against the Colts, Bears and Saints, with Desmond Ridder presumably operating as his backup. In Heinicke's only full game this season -- a Week 9 loss to the Vikings -- he completed 21 of 38 pass attempts for 268 yards, one touchdown and one interception. For fantasy purposes, Heinicke finds himself as an emergency option in leagues that include multiple lineup spots for quarterbacks, and his…read more
Published: Wed, Dec 20 at 8:57am by Rotowire.com
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Reclaims starting job
The Falcons intend for Heinicke to start over Desmond Ridder in Sunday's game against the Colts, Josh Kendall of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Heinicke is usurping Ridder on the depth chart for the second time this season, a change that could well last the remainder of the 2023 campaign. The move comes following Ridder's game-sealing red zone interception during Atlanta's loss to Carolina in Week 15, a mistake which put a dent in the Falcons' playoff hopes. Heinicke has been serviceable if unimpressive in limited action this season, having completed 41 of 74 pass attempts for 498, three touchdowns and one interception across three…read more
Published: Tue, Dec 19 at 7:16am by Rotowire.com
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Being considered for Week 16 start
Coach Arthur Smith said Monday that he's mulling a change in quarterback from Desmond Ridder to Heinicke, but the Falcons have yet to name a starter for Sunday's game against the Colts, D. Orlando Ledbetter of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.
Analysis: Heinicke has made two starts this season, but Ridder had reclaimed the starting job prior to this past Sunday's 9-7 loss to the Panthers. Poor weather conditions played a part in the game's low-scoring nature, but Ridder contributed to the losing result with a red-zone interception. Smith added that third-stringer Logan Woodside isn't in contention to start Week 16 against the Colts. How the practice reps are divided between Heinicke and Ridder could provide a clue as to which quarterback will…read more
Published: Mon, Dec 18 at 11:03am by Rotowire.com
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Cleared to suit up
Heinicke (hamstring) is active for Sunday's matchup against the Saints, Michael Rothstein of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Despite being active, Heinicke will serve as the backup behind Desmond Ridder, who's reclaimed the starting spot after Heinicke struggled through three appearances before suffering a hamstring injury. Barring an injury to Ridder, Heinicke will presumably serve as the primary backup for the remainder of the 2023 campaign.
Published: Sun, Nov 26 at 8:41am by Rotowire.com
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Questionable for Sunday
Heinicke (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against New Orleans, Michael Rothstein of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: He'll only be the backup even if he plays, with coach Arthur Smith announcing earlier this week that Desmond Ridder will return to the starting QB role and could stay there for the rest of the season. Heinicke finally got his shot in November, but he struggled in his three appearances -- all losses -- and came out of the third game with a hamstring injury. He's still not 100 percent after a Week 11 bye, potentially giving Logan Woodside a chance to step up to the backup QB job for a game or two.
Published: Fri, Nov 24 at 10:25am by Rotowire.com
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Limited again Thursday
Heinicke (hamstring) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice, Scott Blair of the Falcons' official site reports.
Analysis: Heinicke was also limited Wednesday, so his status for Sunday's contest versus New Orleans remains in question. The veteran quarterback was injured in the fourth quarter against Arizona in Week 10, though the issue was subsequently described as minor. Even if Heinicke is able to suit up Sunday, he's expected to return to a backup role behind Desmond Ridder.
Published: Thu, Nov 23 at 10:51am by Rotowire.com
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Set for limited practice
Heinicke (hamstring) will be a limited participant at Wednesday's practice, D. Orlando Ledbetter of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.
Analysis: Heinicke practicing in any capacity can be viewed as positive news after Joe Patrick of 92-9 The Game Atlanta reported Monday that the quarterback was unlikely to take part in practice leading up to Sunday's game against the Saints. Before the team's Week 11 bye, Heinicke drew starts Week 9 against Minnesota and Week 10 against Arizona, but he left the latter game due to a hamstring injury. Desmond Ridder has been named the starting quarterback for Week 12, so even if Heinicke is ultimately…read more
Published: Wed, Nov 22 at 9:04am by Rotowire.com
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Unlikely to practice Week 12
Heinicke (hamstring) isn't expected to practice this week, Joe Patrick of 92-9 The Game Atlanta reports.
Analysis: While making his second consecutive start in the Falcons' Week 10 loss to the Cardinals, Heinicke was knocked out of the game early due to a hamstring strain and is still in recovery mode following a Week 11 bye. Michael Rothstein of ESPN.com reported over the weekend that the Falcons were planning on restoring Desmond Ridder as their starting quarterback coming out of the bye week, so Heinicke will be limited to a backup role Sunday against the Saints even if he gets the green light to suit up…read more
Published: Mon, Nov 20 at 10:20am by Rotowire.com
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Returning to No. 2 role
Heinicke (hamstring) is expected to return to a backup role in the Falcons' Week 12 game against the Saints, with Atlanta planning to restore Desmond Ridder as its starting quarterback coming out of a Week 11 bye, Michael Rothstein of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Heinicke made his Atlanta debut Week 8, when he replaced a struggling Ridder in the second half of a 28-23 loss to the Titans. After throwing for a touchdown and averaging 8.3 yards per attempt against Tennessee, Heinicke was named the starter for both of Atlanta's subsequent two contests. The quarterback change didn't lead to better results, however, as Atlanta dropped games to the Vikings and Cardinals while Heinicke completed 29 of 53 pass attempts for 323 yards, two touchdowns and an…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 19 at 5:52am by Rotowire.com
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Injury considered minor
Head coach Arthur Smith said Monday that Heinicke's hamstring injury is considered "low grade," Terrin Waack of the Falcons' official site reports.
Analysis: Additionally, Smith said the Falcons will use the Week 11 bye to determine who will start under center when the team returns to action Nov. 26 versus the Saints. With the bye week to recuperate, Heinicke's hamstring injury isn't expected to be a major concern by the time the Falcons begin Week 12 prep. Desmond Ridder completed four of six passes for 39 yards and rushed three times for 11 yards and a touchdown in relief of Heinicke in this past Sunday's loss to Arizona.
Published: Mon, Nov 13 at 10:11am by Rotowire.com
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Not returning Sunday
Heinicke (hamstring) won't return to Sunday's game at Arizona, Terrin Waack of the Falcons' official site reports.
Analysis: Prior to his departure in the fourth quarter, Heinicke had completed eight of 15 passes for 55 yards and one touchdown while rushing four times for 34 yards. Desmond Ridder took over under center for Heinicke. With a Week 11 bye on tap, the Falcons don't play again until Sunday, Nov. 26 against the Saints.
Published: Sun, Nov 12 at 3:49pm by Rotowire.com
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Hurts hamstring against Arizona
Heinicke (hamstring) is questionable to return to Sunday's game against the Cardinals, D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.
Analysis: Desmond Ridder is in at quarterback for Atlanta with Heinicke hobbled by a second-half hamstring injury. Prior to getting hurt, Heinicke completed eight of 15 passes for 55 yards and a touchdown while rushing four times for 34 yards.
Published: Sun, Nov 12 at 3:43pm by Rotowire.com
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Starting again in Week 10
Falcons head coach Arthur Smith said Heinicke will remain the team's starting quarterback for Sunday's game against Arizona, Michael Rothstein of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Heinicke was serviceable in his first start of the season in Sunday's 31-28 loss to the Vikings, completing 21 of 38 passes for 268 yards, one touchdown and one interception, despite not having top wideout Drake London (groin) at his disposal. The veteran signal-caller will have another chance to make his case for a more permanent spot atop the depth chart Week 10, but Smith said that the Falcons will evaluate the position over the Week 11 bye. Heinicke's Week 9 performance didn't represent a…read more
Published: Mon, Nov 6 at 10:13am by Rotowire.com
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Attempts 38 passes
Heinicke completed 21 of 38 passes for 268 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Sunday's 31-28 loss to the Vikings.
Analysis: Heinicke made his first start with Atlanta, and he turned in a modest performance by averaging 7.1 yards per attempt. His total numbers look decent on the surface, but 60 of his yards -- all of which came after the catch -- and his lone touchdown were accounted for on a score by Jonnu Smith. Heinicke also threw a key pick that led directly to a field goal for the Vikings. His performance may improve with the return of Drake London (groin), but his first start didn't provide a big lift over what…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 5 at 8:06pm by Rotowire.com
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Named Week 9 starter
Falcons head coach Arthur Smith said that Heinicke will start Sunday's game against the Vikings, D. Orlando Ledbetter of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.
Analysis: Heinicke will pick up his first start of the season, despite incumbent Desmond Ridder having been cleared to serve as Atlanta's backup after passing all concussion tests following his removal from this past Sunday's loss to the Titans, per Tori McElhaney of the Falcons' official site. While coming on in relief of Ridder in Week 8, Heinicke played the final two quarters and completed 12 of 21 passes for 175 yards and one touchdown. Smith noted that the quarterback change is a short-term decision…read more
Published: Wed, Nov 1 at 8:55am by Rotowire.com
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Takes over after halftime
Heinicke completed 12 of 21 passes for 175 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions in Sunday's 28-23 loss to the Titans.
Analysis: Heinecke entered the game to start the second half in relief of Desmond Ridder, who was evaluated for a concussion and cleared to return. Heinicke had a significant amount of success, leading the Falcons on four scoring drives, specifically two touchdowns and two field goals. Despite those results, coach Arthur Smith said he was simply being cautious with Ridder and remains confident in the second-year quarterback, per Michael Rothstein of ESPN.com.
Published: Sun, Oct 29 at 2:06pm by Rotowire.com
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Plays one drive
Heinicke played two drives and threw two incomplete passes in Thursday's preseason game against Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Pittsburgh's starters dominated Atlanta's backups, quickly making it 14-0. Heinicke will look on from the sideline Week 1 against the Panthers while Desmond Ridder gets the start under center.
Published: Thu, Aug 24 at 5:36pm by Rotowire.com
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Slated to start Thursday
Heinicke likely will get the start for Thursday's preseason game against the Steelers with Desmond Ridder not in uniform ahead of kickoff, Michael Rothstein of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: After starting 24 games with the Commanders over the last two seasons, Heinicke joined up with the Falcons this offseason to serve as Ridder's backup. Heinicke didn't play in Atlanta's exhibition opener at Miami but took the field last Friday versus the Bengals, completing 13 of 21 passes for 162 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions while rushing twice for 14 yards. Once Heinicke hits the sideline for good Thursday, fellow reserve Logan Woodside will take over the offense.
Published: Thu, Aug 24 at 3:55pm by Rotowire.com
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Prepping for backup role
Heinicke said his goal is to be "the best backup I can" behind fellow Falcons quarterback Desmond Ridder, Josh Kendall of The Athletic reports. "They drafted [Ridder] high for a reason," Heinicke added Thursday afternoon.
Analysis: The catch is that Atlanta didn't draft Ridder all that early (74th overall), while Heinicke's two-year, $14 million contract ($6.32 million guaranteed) makes him one of the better-compensated backups in the league. The team was clear with Heinicke about Ridder being the starter, which figures to carry into Week 1, but that doesn't necessarily mean the second-year pro will have a lot of leeway if he struggles once the season starts. Heinicke's stats from Washington -- 64.0 completion rate, 7.0…read more
Published: Thu, Mar 16 at 12:43pm by Rotowire.com
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Linking up with Atlanta
Heinicke came to terms Tuesday with Atlanta on a two-year contract, Mike Garafolo and Ian Rapoport of NFL Network report.
Analysis: Heinicke is expected to join a quarterback room currently led by second-year pro Desmond Ridder, putting Heinicke in a position to serve as a veteran understudy. An Atlanta native who will turn 30 years old Wednesday, Heinicke logged 24 regular-season starts with the Commanders over the past two seasons and threw for 32 touchdowns against 21 interceptions during that stretch.
Published: Tue, Mar 14 at 6:25am by Rotowire.com
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Won't start Sunday
Commanders head coach Ron Rivera said Wednesday that Sam Howell rather than Heinicke will start Sunday's season finale against the Cowboys, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Earlier Wednesday, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reported that Heinicke was in line to draw the starting assignment in place of the benched Carson Wentz, with Howell also in line to appear in relief. However, Rivera subsequently clarified that the rookie fifth-round pick will take the first snap for the team Sunday, and presumably play the entire game. At 7-8-1, the Commanders have been eliminated from playoff contention and are incentivized to see what they have in Howell, who has yet to make his…read more
Published: Wed, Jan 4 at 10:25am by Rotowire.com
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Set to reclaim starting role
Heinicke is expected to be named the Commanders' starting quarterback for Sunday's game against the Cowboys, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: With Carson Wentz flopping in his return to the starting role in last week's 24-10 loss to the Browns, head coach Ron Rivera looks set to turn the offense back over to Heinicke with little on the line in the season finale for the 7-8-1 Commanders, who have been eliminated from playoff contention. Over his nine starts this season prior to being benched Week 17, Heinicke guided Washington to a 5-3-1 record while completing 62.2 percent of his passes for 1,859 yards, 12 touchdowns and six…read more
Published: Wed, Jan 4 at 6:17am by Rotowire.com
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Loses starting job to Wentz
Heinicke will drop to second on the depth chart at quarterback with Washington naming Carson Wentz as its starter for Sunday's game against the Browns, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: With the 7-7-1 Commanders having suffered a pair of losses and a tie over their past three games, the team will turn the offense over to Wentz, who replaced the struggling Heinicke in Saturday's 37-20 loss to the 49ers. Wentz previously started Washington's first six games of the season before breaking his right ring finger on Oct. 13. Though Wentz has been healthy for several weeks, Heinicke retained the starting job after guiding Washington to a 5-3-1 overall record during his nine-game run…read more
Published: Wed, Dec 28 at 6:20am by Rotowire.com
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Benched Week 16, may lose starting job
Heinicke completed 13 of 18 pass attempts for 166 yards, two touchdowns, an interception and a fumble lost in Saturday's 37-20 loss to the 49ers.
Analysis: Heinicke -- who entered the game already on the hot seat -- was unceremoniously benched in the second half in favor of Carson Wentz (12/16 for 123 yards and a touchdown) after he committed turnovers on consecutive drives. The 29-year-old was actually having a solid game against one of the league's top defenses before unraveling late in the contest. Head coach Ron Rivera said after the game that he will review the game film and decide on his starting quarterback early in Week 17, according to…read more
Published: Sat, Dec 24 at 7:03pm by Rotowire.com
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Remains starter for now
Heinicke remains the Commanders' starting QB ahead of Saturday's game against the 49ers, John Keim of ESPN reports.
Analysis: In the wake of Sunday's 20-12 loss to the Giants, coach Ron Rivera noted that the team plans to stick with Heinicke for now, but added that he'd consider pivoting to Carson Wentz at some point if the team doesn't "get back on track." Wentz, who began the season as the team's starter, suffered a broken right ring finger on Oct. 13 and last suited up for game action Week 6, but he's back from a stint on IR and suited up Week 15 as Heinicke's backup.
Published: Mon, Dec 19 at 2:46pm by Rotowire.com
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Comes up short in SNF loss
Heinicke completed 17 of 29 pass attempts for 249 yards and a touchdown Sunday. He rushed three times for 33 yards and lost two fumbles in a 20-12 loss to the Giants.
Analysis: It was an eventful game for Heinicke despite the losing effort and middling fantasy line. The undrafted veteran almost brought his team back late in the fourth quarter on a gutsy scramble that was ultimately stopped one yard short of the end zone by the Giants' Kayvon Thibodeaux. The latter also stripped Heinicke of the ball for a scoop and score at the end of the first half that changed the tide in the game. On the flip side, the 29-year-old had success taking deeper shots down the field --…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 18 at 10:53pm by Rotowire.com
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Builds up yardage numbers in tie
Heinicke completed 27 of 41 passes for 275 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions in the Commanders' 20-20 tie with the Giants on Sunday. He also rushed twice for six yards and committed two fumbles, losing one.
Analysis: Heinicke brought the Commanders back from a touchdown deficit in the fourth quarter, tying the game on a 28-yard touchdown pass to Jahan Dotson on which the receiver made a nifty spin move just outside the 10-yard line to eventually cross the goal line. However, the fifth-year quarterback's afternoon was not without blemishes, as his early-third-quarter fumble on a sack led to a Giants recovery at the 20-yard line that set up New York's final touchdown of the afternoon. Heinicke also led the…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 4 at 2:50pm by Rotowire.com
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Two touchdowns in win
Heinicke completed 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards, two touchdowns and one interception in Sunday's 19-13 win over the Falcons.
Analysis: Both Washington and Atlanta were content to rely on their rushing attacks, leaving Heinicke with very limited passing volume. Despite that, he did manage to throw for two touchdowns, which came from 14 and 16 yards away, respectively. When able, Washington will look to continue to limit Heinicke's passing volume, and he's now thrown for 200 or fewer yards in three of his last four games.
Published: Sun, Nov 27 at 6:42pm by Rotowire.com
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Struggles on the road
Heinicke completed 15 of 27 passes for 191 yards against Houston on Sunday.
Analysis: Washington built a safe lead early in this game, and perhaps the resulting lack of urgency had something to do with Heinicke's middling production. Heinicke took six quarterback hits from a usually lackluster Texans pass rush, but he'll aim for a better performance against another team with trouble pressuring the quarterback in the Falcons in Week 12.
Published: Sun, Nov 20 at 1:44pm by Rotowire.com
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Wins starting gig going forward
The Commanders are expected to proceed with Heinicke as the starting quarterback to finish the 2022 season, unless his performance necessitates a change, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Heinicke has won three of his four starts this season, with six touchdowns (one rushing) and four interceptions in that span, and his command of the offense has evidently convinced Washington's coaching staff that the starting job should be his to keep. Even with Carson Wentz (finger) eligible to come off IR and rookie fifth-round pick Sam Howell waiting in the wings, it appears that Heinicke will be able to avoid any sort of quarterback controversy as long as he's able to look the part.…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 20 at 3:59am by Rotowire.com
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Named as Week 11 starter
Commanders head coach Ron Rivera said Heinicke will start Sunday's game in Houston, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.
Analysis: Carson Wentz (finger) is eligible to return from injured reserve this week, and a recent report from Sam Fortier of The Washington Post suggested the Commanders were preparing Wentz to reclaim the starting role. Even if that's the case, it apparently won't happen for at least Week 11, giving Heinicke one more chance to make an argument to keep the job.
Published: Wed, Nov 16 at 2:17pm by Rotowire.com
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Makes case to remain starter
Heinicke completed 17 of 29 passes for 211 yards and one interception in Monday's 32-21 win over the Eagles. He added 10 yards on five rushing attempts.
Analysis: Heinicke's fumble on a strip sack put the Eagles into the red zone less than two minutes into the game, but he recovered nicely and helped the Commanders wear Philadelphia's defense down with methodical drives en route to a 20-14 halftime lead. With Washington clinging to a 23-21 lead early in the fourth, Heinicke committed another costly turnover, throwing an interception in Philadelphia territory, but Washington's defense forced three turnovers after that point to hold on for the win.…read more
Published: Mon, Nov 14 at 9:24pm by Rotowire.com
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Throws pair of TDs in loss
Heinicke completed 15 of 28 passes for 149 yards with two touchdowns and one interception in the Commanders' 20-17 loss to the Vikings on Sunday. He also rushed four times for 17 yards.
Analysis: Heinicke had a positive impact with touchdown tosses of of 49 and six yards to Curtis Samuel and Dax Milne, respectively, but his fourth-quarter interception could hardly have been more ill-timed. With the Commanders up by seven, Heinicke overthrew Logan Thomas by an appreciable margin midway through the final period, resulting in a Harrison Smith interception that set up a game-tying 12-yard receiving touchdown by Dalvin Cook two plays later. Heinicke does have five touchdown tosses in his…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 6 at 3:04pm by Rotowire.com
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Leads game-winning drive
Heinicke completed 23 of 31 passes for 279 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Sunday's 17-16 win over the Colts. He added six rushes for 29 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: Heinicke capped an impressive comeback win with a one-yard run off right guard into the end zone late in the fourth quarter to put the Commanders ahead for good. He completed a key 33-yard pass to Terry McLaurin earlier in the drive and peppered his star receiver with deep targets throughout the game -- also connecting for gains of 42 and 18 yards. In two games since taking over as the Commanders' starter, Heinicke has combined to complete 43 of 64 passes for 480 yards, three touchdowns and two…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 30 at 9:47pm by Rotowire.com
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Throws two TDs to beat Packers
Heinicke completed 20 of 33 passes for 201 yards, two touchdowns and an interception in Sunday's 23-21 win over the Packers. He added two rushing attempts for four yards.
Analysis: Heinicke got off to a dreadful start, completing just one of his first seven passes and throwing a pick-six. He bounced back on the ensuing drive by throwing a nine-yard touchdown pass to Antonio Gibson. Later in the first half, another potential pivotal Heinicke error was erased by a penalty, as an illegal contact penalty on the Packers defense negated a Heinicke fumble that was returned for a touchdown. His 37-yard touchdown to Terry McLaurin put Washington up 17-14 in the third quarter and…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 23 at 3:03pm by Rotowire.com
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Confirmed for Week 7 start
Commanders head coach Ron Rivera confirmed that Heinicke will start at quarterback in Sunday's game against the Packers, while Carson Wentz (finger) has been ruled out for the contest.
Analysis: Heinicke's appointment to the No. 1 role was expected after Wentz fractured the ring finger on his throwing hand during the Commanders' Week 6 win over the Bears. Wentz underwent surgery Monday and is expected to be sidelined 4-6 weeks, but the Commanders haven't yet moved him to injured reserve, perhaps holding out hope that he may be ready to return as soon as Week 10. Heinicke looks to be in position to start at least the next three games, though if he struggles against Green Bay, the…read more
Published: Tue, Oct 18 at 9:25am by Rotowire.com
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Taking over for injured Wentz
Heinicke will bump up to the top of Washington's quarterback depth chart while Carson Wentz recovers from a fractured ring finger on his throwing hand.
Analysis: Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports that Wentz's recovery is expected to take 4-to-6 weeks, so Heinicke should enjoy a multi-game run atop the depth chart. Heinicke will reclaim Washington's starting quarterback job beginning with Sunday's game against the Packers. He led Washington to a 7-8 record in his 15 starts last season while posting a 20:15 TD:INT and averaging 6.9 yards per attempt.
Published: Mon, Oct 17 at 11:58am by Rotowire.com
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Backup role on tap
With Carson Wentz set to be traded from the Colts to the Commanders, Heinicke is in line to serve as Washington's No. 2 QB in 2022, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Heinicke recorded a 7-8 record in his 15 starts last season after after taking over at QB for Ryan Fitzpatrick, who injured his hip in Week 1. However, based on the team's pending move to trade draft picks for Wentz, Heinicke is now in line to revert to a backup role in 2022.
Published: Wed, Mar 9 at 1:08pm by Rotowire.com
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Lackluster numbers in finale
Heinicke completed nine of 18 passes for 120 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions and rushed twice for three yards in Washington's 22-7 win over the Giants on Sunday. He also committed a fumble that was recovered by the offense.
Analysis: Heinicke finished with absolutely pedestrian numbers, but going up against a Jake Fromm-led Giants squad, they proved to be more than enough. The Old Dominion product also got help from his defense, which recorded a pick-six. Heinicke appeared to be making a strong case to serve as the team's long-term answer under center at one point after taking over for Ryan Fitzpatrick (IR-hip) in the opener, but he subsequently introduced plenty of doubt into the equation by throwing for under 200 yards in…read more
Published: Sun, Jan 9 at 4:18pm by Rotowire.com
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Starting again Sunday
Heinicke will start Sunday's game against the Giants, Matthew Paras of The Washington Times reports.
Analysis: Heinicke once again struggled during Sunday's Week 17 loss to the Eagles and completed 27 of 36 passes for 247 yards, no touchdowns and an interception while rushing twice for 14 yards. He's now thrown at least one interception in each of the last five games, but coach Ron Rivera confirmed Monday that the 28-year-old will remain the starter for Washington's regular-season finale.
Published: Mon, Jan 3 at 10:07am by Rotowire.com
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Struggles again
Heinicke completed 27 of 36 passes for 247 yards, no touchdowns and one interception in Sunday's 20-16 loss to the Eagles. He added two rushes for 14 yards.
Analysis: Contrary to reports that surfaced throughout the week, Heinicke was Washington's sole quarterback against the Eagles. However, his results didn't necessarily dictate that be the case. He averaged only 6.9 yards per attempt and also threw at least one interception for the fifth consecutive game. In addition to the errors, Heinicke failed to reach the end zone -- the ninth time in his last 11 contests that he has failed to throw for multiple touchdowns. Even if Heincke remains the starter in Week…read more
Published: Sun, Jan 2 at 8:03pm by Rotowire.com
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Grasp on starting job slipping
Head coach Ron Rivera said that Heinicke will remain Washington's starting quarterback in Sunday's game against the Eagles, but backup Kyle Allen is expected to receive some reps in the contest, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: After both Heinicke and Allen weren't able to clear the NFL's COVID-19 protocols ahead of a Week 15 loss to Philadelphia, the two signal-callers were activated prior to the matchup with Dallas. Though he got in a pair of practices before the game, Heincke struggled to move the offense in an embarrassing 56-14 loss to the Cowboys, completing only seven of 22 attempts for 121 yards, a touchdown and two interceptions before he was benched in favor of Allen. The outcome was already decided by the…read more
Published: Mon, Dec 27 at 11:21am by Rotowire.com
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Benched in blowout loss
Heinicke (illness) completed seven of 22 pass attempts for 121 yards, a touchdown and two interceptions in Sunday's 56-14 loss to Dallas.
Analysis: Heinicke returned from the reserve/COVID-19 list for this contest, only to be greeted with a rude welcome from a relentless Dallas defense. Washington started the second half down 42-7, so head coach Ron Rivera rolled out backup Kyle Allen -- who threw for 67 yards and a touchdown -- to get some work in garbage time. The Football Team may opt to go with Allen over Heinicke moving forward based off of the contrasting performances Sunday, with whoever ends up starting having the task of keeping…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 26 at 9:36pm by Rotowire.com
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Returns from COVID-19 list
Washington activated Heinicke (illness) from the reserve/COVID-19 list Thursday.
Analysis: After spending the last six days in quarantine, Heinicke is no longer symptomatic of the virus and will rejoin the Football Team for practice Thursday, setting him up to reclaim starting duties Sunday in Dallas. While both Heinicke and top backup Kyle Allen (illness) were on the reserve/COVID-19 list Week 15, Garrett Gilbert stepped in for the start in Tuesday's 27-17 loss to the Eagles. If Allen isn't cleared before the Week 16 contest, Gilbert will serve as the backup to Heinicke, whose…read more
Published: Thu, Dec 23 at 6:29am by Rotowire.com
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Not playing Tuesday
Heinicke (illness) wasn't activated from the reserve/COVID-19 list and won't be available for Tuesday's game against the Eagles, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Neither Heinicke nor No. 2 signal-caller Kyle Allen (illness) was able to clear the NFL's COVID-19 protocols after both tested positive for the virus less than a week ago, so for at least one game, Washington will turn the offense over to Garrett Gilbert, who was signed off the Patriots' practice squad Friday. The Football Team will hope to get one of Heinicke or Allen back in advance of its Week 16 game against the Cowboys on Sunday.
Published: Tue, Dec 21 at 12:40pm by Rotowire.com
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Washington-Eagles moved to Tuesday
Heinicke (illness) and Washington will no longer play the Eagles on Sunday, after the NFL officially rescheduled the matchup between the two teams for Tuesday at 7 p.m. ET.
Analysis: Due to ongoing COVID-19-related issues within Washington's organization, the NFL is hopeful that by delaying the game two days, the Football Team will restore enough players from the reserve/COVID-19 list to alleviate depth concerns on the roster. Even with the delay, Heinicke, who was placed on the list Friday after testing positive for the virus, will face an uphill battle to clear the necessary protocols ahead of Tuesday's game. Top backup Kyle Allen was placed on the list Wednesday after a…read more
Published: Fri, Dec 17 at 12:26pm by Rotowire.com
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Tests positive for COVID-19
Heinicke will be placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list Friday after testing positive for the virus and is unlikely to be available for Sunday's game against the Eagles, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Heinicke joins backup quarterback Kyle Allen in the COVID-19 protocols. According to John Keim of ESPN.com, Heinicke is vaccinated and therefore has a chance to test out of the protocols before Sunday, though that's viewed as a long shot. Since Allen is also vaccinated and landed on the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday, he would have a more realistic chance of gaining clearance for the Week 15 matchup. If neither Heinicke nor Allen can play, however, Washington will likely turn to either…read more
Published: Fri, Dec 17 at 7:12am by Rotowire.com
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Full practice, should play
Heinicke (knee/elbow) was a full practice participant Wednesday and is on track to start Sunday's game in Philadelphia, JP Finlay of NBC Sports Washington reports.
Analysis: That's especially good news for Washington with backup quarterback Kyle Allen having landed on the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday after testing positive for the virus. Allen replaced an injured Heinicke in the second half of Sunday's 27-20 loss to Dallas, but an MRI confirmed Heinicke's initial belief that he avoided serious damage. His elbow injury also appears minor, with head coach Ron Rivera saying the signal-caller "didn't seem to have any issues" at Wednesday's practice. Despite…read more
Published: Wed, Dec 15 at 11:35am by Rotowire.com
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Getting MRI on knee
Heinicke will have an MRI on Monday on the knee injury he suffered Sunday against Dallas, but he's optimistic he'll be able to start in Week 15 against the Eagles, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Heinicke was replaced by Kyle Allen in what ended up being a 27-20 loss to the Cowboys. Schefter reports that Heinicke's optimism about his status moving forward is shared by his team, but a more definitive prognosis on the starting quarterback's injury should emerge once his MRI results become available.
Published: Sun, Dec 12 at 8:16pm by Rotowire.com
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Hurts knee Sunday
Heinicke suffered a knee injury during Sunday's contest against the Cowboys.
Analysis: Heinicke spent much of Week 14 running for his life versus a fearsome Dallas pass rush, taking four sacks and seven quarterback hits overall. If he's unable to return, he'll have put together a dreadful passing line -- 11-for-25 for 122 yards, one touchdown and one interception -- to go with three carries for eight yards. Heinicke actually left this game in both the first and second half for spells, so he appears poised to have practice limitations in the coming days. Kyle Allen replaced…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 12 at 1:03pm by Rotowire.com
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Tosses two TDs in win
Heinicke completed 23 of 30 passes for 196 yards and two touchdowns with one interception in Sunday's 17-15 win over the Raiders.
Analysis: He also gained 10 yards on three carries. Heinicke and the Washington offense didn't have a lot of success moving the football, but the QB was able to convert a couple red-zone trips with scores to Logan Thomas (knee) and Antonio Gibson. It's only the second time in the last eight games Heinicke has tossed multiple TDs, and he may need to be productive again in Week 14 against the Cowboys.
Published: Sun, Dec 5 at 8:00pm by Rotowire.com
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Accurate in win
Heinicke completed 27 of 35 passes for 223 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Monday night's 17-15 win over the Seahawks.
Analysis: Heinicke helped Washington move the ball and dominate possession by playing his usual crafty brand of quarterback. The signal-caller found tailback J.D. McKissic for a 10-yard touchdown prior to halftime, then hit Terry McLaurin for a 20-yard gain on a scoring drive to begin the third quarter. Although he had another touchdown overturned late in the fourth, Heinicke still did enough to lead his team to a third straight victory, putting him in good standing ahead of Week 13's trip to play the…read more
Published: Mon, Nov 29 at 9:19pm by Rotowire.com
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Strong versus former team
Heinicke completed 16 of 22 passes for 206 yards and three touchdowns in Sunday's 27-21 win over the Panthers. He also rushed six times for 29 yards.
Analysis: Heinicke turned in a great performance against his former team, connecting on a trio of red-zone touchdowns before helping Washington seal the game late. It marked just the second time in Heinicke's career that he threw for three scores in a game, and he also didn't commit a turnover for the second straight week. For good measure, Heinicke pitched in some useful yardage on the ground as well. Following his triumph in Carolina on Sunday, Heinicke will now turn his attention toward a Monday night…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 21 at 1:51pm by Rotowire.com
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Atones for January playoff loss
Heinicke completed 26 of 32 passes for 256 yards with one touchdown and no interceptions and added 15 yards on three rushes in Washington's 29-19 win over the Buccaneers on Sunday.
Analysis: Heinicke turned in a razor-sharp performance in a rematch against the team that had ousted him and his teammates from last season's postseason, connecting on a season-high 81.3 percent of his throws and staying free of turnovers altogether. The 28-year-old's interception-less performance was his first since Week 4, and he helped seal the upset victory with several key completions during a marathon 19-play touchdown drive that took up 10:26 of the fourth quarter. Heinicke's quest to follow up a…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 14 at 2:46pm by Rotowire.com
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Tosses two picks in Denver
Heinicke completed 24 of 39 passes for 270 yards and a touchdown with two interceptions in Sunday's 17-10 loss to the Broncos. He also gained 10 yards on his only carry.
Analysis: The first pick came on what was effectively a Hail Mary at the end of the first half, but the second was a back-breaker as it came in the end zone with 49 seconds left on the clock and Washington driving for the tying score. Heinicke has a 3:6 TD:INT over the last four games, and Ryan Fitzpatrick (hip) could be ready to reclaim the starting job coming out of the team's Week 9 bye.
Published: Sun, Oct 31 at 6:15pm by Rotowire.com
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Mixed results Sunday
Heinicke completed 25 of 37 pass attempts for 268 yards, one touchdown and one interception against Green Bay on Sunday, adding 95 rushing yards on 10 carries.
Analysis: Heinicke also lost a fumble, which combined with the interception proved costly in the 24-10 road loss. On the other hand, Heinicke's supporting cast is beat up at every position, and other than Terry McLaurin (seven catches for 122 yards and one touchdown on 12 targets) there aren't any pass catchers for Heinicke to lean on. Dyami Brown (knee) left the game, and Washington went into Sunday already without right guard Brandon Scherff (knee), right tackle Samuel Cosmi (ankle), wideout Curtis…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 24 at 2:31pm by Rotowire.com
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Should remain starter through bye
Heinicke is expected to remain Washington's starting quarterback for at least the next two games with Ryan Fitzpatrick (hip) likely to stay on injured reserve through the Football Team's Week 9 bye, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: After Fitzpatrick was diagnosed with a right hip subluxation following his exit in the season-opening loss to the Chargers, Washington was hopeful the 38-year-old signal-caller could return for the Week 7 matchup in Green Bay, at the soonest. However, with Fitzpatrick still using crutches to get around and having yet to even resume practicing, Washington is preparing for him to miss additional time. Heinicke will thus get the starting nod against the Packers, and likely next week in Denver, so…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 24 at 5:43am by Rotowire.com
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Struggles against KC
Heinicke completed 24 of 39 pass attempts for 182 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Sunday's 31-13 loss to Kansas City.
Analysis: Heinicke kept Washington in the game throughout the first half, completing 14 of his 25 passes for 132 yards and a touchdown. However, he and the offense stalled in the second half, and the end result was his lowest yardage total in a full game this season. After operating in a fairly efficient manner through three starts, Heinicke averaged only 4.7 yards per attempt in Sunday's game after picking up only 6.0 yards per attempt in Week 5. Ryan Fitzpatrick (hip) reportedly has a chance to return…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 17 at 4:46pm by Rotowire.com
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Struggles against Saints
Heinicke completed 20 of 41 passes for 248 yards with zero touchdowns and two interceptions in Sunday's 33-22 loss to the Saints. He added 40 yards on five carries.
Analysis: For the first time this season, Heinicke failed to produce a touchdown, and his 6.0 yards per attempt was by far a season low. The 28-year-old has a shaky 7:5 TD:INT through four starts, but he'll face a more generous defense in Week 6 when Washington hosts Kansas City.
Published: Sun, Oct 10 at 3:43pm by Rotowire.com
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Three TD passes in comeback win
Heinicke completed 23 of 33 passes for 290 yards and three touchdowns in Sunday's 34-30 win over the Falcons. He added 43 yards on five rushing attempts.
Analysis: Heinicke hit Terry McLaurin for a 33-yard touchdown in the second quarter but was otherwise quiet until he was called upon to come up with some late-game magic, which has become customary for the 28-year-old quarterback. He connected with McLaurin from 17 yards out to pull Washington within two with 3:52 remaining, then found J.D. McKissic for the game-winning 30-yard touchdown in the final minute, though the running back admittedly did most of the work on the play. With an 8:3 TD:INT since…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 3 at 2:52pm by Rotowire.com
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Mixed bag in blowout loss
Heinicke completed 14 of 24 passes for 212 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in Washington's 43-21 loss to the Bills on Sunday. He also rushed eight times for 21 yards and another score while also recovering a fumble.
Analysis: Heinicke's final line looked solid from a fantasy perspective, but it's worth noting Antonio Gibson lent a big hand to the young quarterback's passing yardage total by taking a screen pass 73 yards to the house in the second quarter. Heinicke added a four-yard scoring scamper later in the period and capped off the scoring for either squad with a two-yard end-zone toss to Logan Thomas in garbage time, but his second- and third-quarter interceptions led to a total of 10 Bills points. Heinicke…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 26 at 2:28pm by Rotowire.com
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Impresses in Week 2 win
Heinicke completed 34 of 46 passes for 336 yards with two touchdowns and one interception in Washington's 30-29 win over the Giants on Thursday night. He also rushed four times for six yards.
Analysis: In a contest that was widely expected to be a lower-scoring affair, Heinicke ended up authoring a prolific performance that came complete with an exciting game-winning drive. The Old Dominion product averaged a solid 7.3 yards per attempt and displayed particularly impressive chemistry with No. 1 wideout Terry McLaurin, with whom he connected on 11 occasions for 107 yards and one of his touchdowns. Heinicke found veteran tight end Ricky Seals-Jones for a 19-yard score as well, and he made…read more
Published: Thu, Sep 16 at 8:58pm by Rotowire.com
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Starting in Week 2
Heinicke will start Thursday's Week 2 matchup against the Giants, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Heinicke filled in for Ryan Fitzpatrick (hip) in Sunday's season opener and completed 11 of 15 passes for 122 yards and a touchdown. Fitzpatrick will undergo an MRI on Monday to determine the severity of his injury, but he's at least expected to miss the Week 2 contest because Washington will be playing on a short week. Kyle Allen is slated to serve as Heinicke's primary backup against the Giants.
Published: Mon, Sep 13 at 8:57am by Rotowire.com
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Excellent in relief
Heinicke completed 11 of 15 passes for 122 yards and a touchdown after coming in for an injured Ryan Fitzpatrick (hip) in Sunday's 20-16 loss to the Chargers.
Analysis: Fitzpatrick was injured after a hard tackle by the Chargers, forcing Heinicke to enter during the second quarter. It took until the third quarter for the 28-year-old to finally gain some rhythm, and while the majority of his production came on a fluky underthrown deep ball to Terry McLaurin that a Chargers defender simply misplayed, it was still a relatively controlled and effective performance from Heinicke. If Fitzpatrick misses time, expect to see the former Panthers backup starting games…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 12 at 1:56pm by Rotowire.com
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Not playing Saturday
Heinicke will not play Saturday against the Ravens, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.
Analysis: Both Heinicke and Ryan Fitzpatrick will be held out Saturday, leaving the final preseason contest to be helmed by Kyle Allen and Steven Montez. Allen was rumored to be pushing Heinicke for the backup spot after a solid preseason, but if this is any indication it seems like the Panthers transplant is clearly behind Heinicke on the team's depth chart.
Published: Sat, Aug 28 at 1:37pm by Rotowire.com
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Follows Fitzpatrick again
Heinicke completed 11 of his 13 passes for 80 yards and no touchdowns or interceptions in Friday's preseason game against Cincinnati. He also added four rushes for 26 yards.
Analysis: Heinicke relieved Ryan Fitzpatrick on the team's first possession of the second quarter. He led four drives and was very accurate with his throws, though he didn't look to push the ball down the field -- eight of Heinicke's 11 completions went for under 10 yards. One notable exception to his conservative play came on a pair of connections with Antonio Gandy-Golden that went for gains of 16 and 17 yards. Washington has not formally named Fitzpatrick the starting quarterback, though Heinicke…read more
Published: Fri, Aug 20 at 9:08pm by Rotowire.com
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Mediocre in loss
Heinicke completed nine of 15 passes for 86 yards in Thursday's 22-13 preseason loss to New England.
Analysis: Ryan Fitzpatrick got the start and completed five of eight passes for 58 yards. Neither Fitz nor Heinicke had a touchdown or interception, though the latter did lead a 64-yard drive capped off by Peyton Barber's one-yard TD at the goal line. While coach Ron Rivera says his quarterbacks are competing for the starting job, Heinicke remains a long shot to defeat Fitzpatrick.
Published: Fri, Aug 13 at 6:39am by Rotowire.com
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Competing with Fitzpatrick?
Coach Ron Rivera said Thursday that Heinicke and Ryan Fitzpatrick are competing for the starting quarterback job, with Kyle Allen (ankle) potentially joining the mix later on, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.
Analysis: He may be a significant underdog, but Heinicke will at least be given the chance to outplay Fitzpatrick this summer. The 28-year-old QB signed a two-year contract with $1.5 million guaranteed this offseason, after throwing for 306 yards in Washington's 31-23 playoff loss to Tampa Bay.
Published: Thu, Jul 29 at 9:41am by Rotowire.com
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Outplays Fitzpatrick at minicamp
Heinicke was impressive at June minicamp, outplaying presumed starter Ryan Fitzpatrick, Peter Hailey of NBC Sports Washington reports.
Analysis: Henicke has familiarity with offensive coordinator Scott Turner dating back to their time together in Carolina (2018-19), while Fitzpatrick is in the early stages of learning a new system. It should thus come as no surprise that the former looked more comfortable than the latter this spring, though Fitzpatrick got all the first-team reps in spite of his struggles. Head coach Ron Rivera has said multiple times that his quarterbacks will need to compete, but he's also dropped hints about…read more
Published: Wed, Jul 14 at 11:27am by Rotowire.com
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Heading to XFL
Heinicke signed a contract with the St. Louis BattleHawks of the XFL on Friday, Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: The 26-year-old appeared in six games for the Panthers last season but was unable to earn a spot on the 53-man roster this season, as Kyle Allen and rookie Will Grier worked as the backup options to the now-injured Cam Newton (foot). Heinicke completed 35 of 57 passes for 320 yards with one touchdown and three interceptions in 2018, but he'll now have a chance to showcase himself in the new iteration of the XFL.
Published: Fri, Nov 22 at 9:02am by Rotowire.com
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