The Atlanta Falcons have signed veteran quarterback Taylor Heinicke to a two-year contract that could pay him up to $20 million in total, based on incentives. The deal includes a $4 million signing bonus, a $1 million roster bonus due on March 20, a guaranteed base salary of $1.32 million in 2023, and up to $680,000 in per-game roster bonuses.
Taylor Heinicke Contract Details
In 2024, Heinicke will earn a base salary of $5 million, a $1.32 million roster bonus due on the fifth day of the 2024 league year, and up to $680,000 in per-game roster bonuses. In addition to the base salary and bonuses, the contract includes up to $3 million per year in incentives based on playing time, playoff appearances, and games started. If Heinicke meets all of the incentives, he could earn the full $20 million.
The Falcons’ Quarterback Situation
This move is significant, as it means the Falcons will have a solid backup quarterback in Heinicke in case their current starter, Desmond Ridder, is unable to play. While Heinicke will be earning much more than Ridder, who is in the second year of a four-year, $5.36 million deal and is set to earn only $948,000 this year, it is still viewed as an endorsement of Ridder as the starter for the next two years.
Ridder’s contract is a product of where he was drafted, and if he performs well, he will be eligible for a second contract after the 2024 regular season. In the meantime, having Heinicke on the roster provides the Falcons with an experienced backup who can step in if needed.
Heinicke’s NFL Career
Heinicke has played for several NFL teams over the course of his career, including the Minnesota Vikings, New England Patriots, and Washington Football Team. He gained national attention in 2021 when he started for Washington in their playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, filling in for injured starter Alex Smith. While Washington ultimately lost the game, Heinicke impressed many with his performance, throwing for 306 yards and a touchdown while rushing for 46 yards and another touchdown.
The Importance of a Good Backup Quarterback
Heinicke’s signing is part of a larger trend in the NFL, as teams increasingly recognize the importance of having a quality backup quarterback. Injuries are a common occurrence in the NFL, and having a capable backup can be the difference between a successful season and a disappointing one.
In addition to providing insurance against injury, having a backup quarterback like Heinicke can also benefit the team by pushing the starter to perform at their best. Knowing that there is a capable backup waiting in the wings can motivate the starter to work harder and strive for excellence.
The Impact of the Taylor Heinicke Signing
The Falcons are also likely hoping that Taylor Heinicke can bring his playoff experience and leadership skills to the team. While he may not be the starter, he can still have a positive impact on the team by mentoring younger players and providing veteran leadership in the locker room.
Overall, the signing of Taylor Heinicke is a smart move by the Atlanta Falcons. While it may seem like a lot of money for a backup quarterback, the team is making an investment in their future by ensuring that they have a capable backup in case of injury. At the same time, they are signaling their confidence in Desmond Ridder as the starter for the next two years. If everything goes according to plan, the Falcons will have a strong quarterback duo that can help lead them to success on the field.
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