Washington Inks QB Taylor Heinicke To Two-Year Extension Worth $8.75M

Late in the season with their quarterback position in flux due to injury and inconsistent play, Washington turned to unknown QB Taylor Heinicke to try and lead them to an NFC East title.

Washington got the job done, beating Philadelphia on the final night of the regular season to clinch the title, only to lose to the eventual Super Bowl champion Buccaneers in the Wild Card round.

Heinicke, who played his college ball at Old Dominion, is being rewarded for his solid late season play, as reports say the team is giving him a two-year extension worth $8.75M.

Late last season, Heinicke took the place of Dwayne Haskins, who was released by Washington and is now on the Steelers' roster. In a loss to the Carolina Panthers, Heinicke went 12-for-19 and threw for a score, but was unable to lead Washington to victory.

Washington has a number of decisions to make this offseason at the quarterback position, starting with Alex Smith. Though Smith certainly won the 'Comeback Player of the Year Award' last year, age and injuries may have taken their toll.

If Smith retires, the team may get in the sweepstakes for unhappy Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson. They may also go after Eagles QB Carson Wentz if things don't work out between Philadelphia and Chicago, who are reportedly in trade discussions for Wentz.

For now Washington liked what they saw from Heinicke enough to bring him back, and he could wind up being the team's backup in 2021 should the team start Smith or grab another quarterback on the market via trade or free agency.