Washington Football Team head coach Ron Rivera revealed recently-signed quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick will enter training camp as the QB1. However, Rivera says there will be a competition at QB.
Washington signed Fitzpatrick to a one-year, $10 million deal, assuring it’s his job to lose as the starter. The team also re-signed Taylor Heinicke to a two-year extension and tendered Kyle Allen for the 2021 season. Washington could add a rookie to mix depending on how the upcoming NFL Draft shapes out.
Rivera admitted he regretted not having a true competition last season when the team crowned Dwayne Haskins the Week 1 starter.
Heinicke has become a fan favorite in Washington after flashing late in the 2020 season. Initially signed in December as Washington’s quarantine quarterback, Heinicke got his chance to get on the field after injuries and struggles at quarterback.
With Alex Smith injured, Heinicke started and played well Washington’s wild card round playoff loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Heinicke threw for 306 yards, one touchdown and an interception. He also had an epic scramble for a touchdown.
Allen started four games for Washington after the benching of since-released Dwayne Haskins. However, he suffered a gruesome ankle injury that ended his season in October. If healthy, he is sure to a viable candidate in the QB competition.
Still with two solid in-house options, Washington wanted a formidable experienced quarterback to bring in. After missing out on the Matthew Stafford trade, Washington ultimately signed the 37-year old Fitzpatrick.
Ryan Fitzpatrick he chose Washington over at least three other teams because of the chance to compete for the starter position.
This will be Fitzpatrick’s ninth NFL team. He has been the ultimate journeyman. Despite usually being the stopgap solution, Fitzpatrick has had strong performances throughout his 16-year career. Last season he threw for 2,091 yards 13 touchdowns and eight interceptions in nine games and seven starts with the Miami Dolphins.
