NFL Rumors: Taylor Heinicke Won't Be Starting QB For Atlanta Falcons In 2023

It looks like Taylor Heinicke won't enter the season as the Atlanta Falcons' starting quarterback.

According to Josh Kendall of The Athletic, Heinicke has expressed his goal of being the best backup he can be, acknowledging that Ridder was drafted high for a reason.

Despite being one of the better-compensated backups in the league with a two-year, $14 million contract ($6.32 million guaranteed), Heinicke is taking a team-first approach and embracing his role.

Taylor Heinicke says his mindset is to come in and to be the best backup he can be for Desmond Ridder with the Falcons. He says Atlanta was up front with him about his role with the club.
— William McFadden (@willmcfadden) March 16, 2023

Although there won't be a quarterback battle in Atlanta this year, Heinicke could still see some playing time if Ridder's performance falters.

With decent stats from his time in Washington, Heinicke stands out as a strong candidate for one of the league's top backup quarterbacks.

While Ridder is likely to start in Week 1, he will need to perform well to maintain his starting role and stave off any potential challenge from the experienced Heinicke.

The 29-year-old Heinicke spent the last three seasons with Washington, starting nine games last season and leading them to a 5-3-1 record while throwing for 1,859 yards, 12 touchdowns, and six interceptions. Heinicke is known for his willingness to scramble and his weaker arm and accuracy as compared to other NFL quarterbacks.

Taylor Heinicke today told Falcons reporters including @JoshTheAthletic, that he was headed back to DC "as of two or three days ago" but Falcons came back with a better offer.

Heinicke also admitted some heartbreak for leaving the team that gave him his "second chance at… https://t.co/9EktVhOXg3 pic.twitter.com/OgNHnmgESV
— Ben Standig (@BenStandig) March 16, 2023