The Washington Football Team has re-signed quarterback Taylor Heinicke to a two-year deal worth $8.75 million, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. The deal includes incentives based around how many games Heinicke starts.
Heinicke, who was out the NFL the entire 2019 season, signed with Washington in December. He initially signed to be the team’s quarantine quarterback. However, Alex Smith’s bone bruise in his surgically repaired leg propelled Heinicke into a backup role behind Dwayne Haskins.
Heinicke ultimately replaced a struggling Haskins in Week 16 and looked well in a game that was seemingly already loss. Bu his significant moment occurred in the NFC Wild Card playoff loss to the eventual Super Bowl champion, Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
In the game, Heinicke threw for 306 yards, one touchdown and one interception. He added 46 yards on the ground and provided one an epic scramble for a touchdown that galvanized Washington fans.
Heinicke went undrafted in 2015 out of Old Dominion. He bounced around the league and had just one NFL start in his career before joining Washington this past season. Now, he has earned an opportunity to at the very least be a backup, who is very familiar with offensive coordinator Scott Turner’s system.
Washington could also bring back Kyle Allen, who will be a restricted free agent. Allen started four games in 2020. But his season was cut short due to an ankle injury.
Washington appears active in their search for a starting quarterback. As they continue to comb though the quarterback market, Heinicke gives the team a security blanket and at minimum an arm to compete in training camp for starting QB.
