In a bold move ahead of the upcoming NFL season, the Los Angeles Chargers have bolstered their quarterbacks room by acquiring Taylor Heinicke from the Atlanta Falcons. The trade, reported by The Athletic’s Diana Russini, sees Heinicke moving to the Chargers in exchange for a conditional sixth-round pick.
Heinicke, who found himself buried on the Falcons’ depth chart behind Kirk Cousins and Michael Penix Jr., is now set to become the top backup to Justin Herbert in Los Angeles. Despite primarily serving as a backup throughout his career, Heinicke brings with him a wealth of starting experience. In his 38 games, including 29 starts, he has amassed 6,635 passing yards with 39 touchdowns and 28 interceptions, resulting in an 84.2 passer rating. Notably, Heinicke nearly pulled off a stunning upset against Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2020 playoffs and went on to start 15 games for Washington in the 2021 season, guiding the Football Team to a 7-10 record.
During his time with the Falcons last year, Heinicke started four games, throwing five touchdowns and four interceptions while posting a 1-3 record in those contests. His arrival in Los Angeles is expected to push Easton Stick to the third-string role with the Chargers. Stick, who struggled in his four starts last season after Herbert’s injury, recorded one touchdown and three interceptions during this preseason.
The addition of Heinicke to the Chargers’ roster marks a significant move as the team prepares for the start of the Jim Harbaugh era. With Heinicke’s experience and skill set, Los Angeles is hoping to strengthen its quarterback depth and provide valuable support to Herbert as they gear up for the upcoming NFL season.