Taylor Heinicke is making his way to the West Coast after being outperformed for the Atlanta Falcons’ backup quarterback position by Michael Penix Jr.

A verified source informed YSL News Sports that Heinicke is being traded to the Los Angeles Chargers. This was reported under anonymity as the source wasn’t authorized to speak publicly about the trade.

In 2023, Heinicke participated in five games during his single season with the Falcons, earning four starts and finishing with a record of 1-3.

This veteran quarterback has previously been part of the Houston Texans (2017), Carolina Panthers (2018), and Washington Commanders (2020-2022).

At 31 years old, he has started in 29 games, with 24 of them played for Washington, where he accumulated a 12-11-1 record.

Heinicke’s career statistics include 6,635 passing yards, 39 touchdowns, 28 interceptions, and an 84.2 passer rating spanning across 38 games.

This decision for the Chargers marks their second trade of the day; they had previously acquired cornerback Elijah Molden from the Tennessee Titans for a seventh-round pick in 2026.

Reasons Behind the Chargers’ Acquisition of Taylor Heinicke

The Chargers found themselves in urgent need of a backup quarterback to support Justin Herbert.

Easton Stick, who has primarily served as a backup throughout his career, didn’t impress during the preseason and had a disappointing record of 0-4 in four starts last season.

Heinicke brings with him valuable starting experience and has demonstrated his capability to manage an offense when the primary starter is unavailable.

Herbert faced a plantar fascia injury during training and preseason but has returned to practice and is anticipated to be ready for Week 1.

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