After starting the majority of the games for the Washington Commanders during the 2022 NFL season, quarterback Taylor Heinicke is set to become a free agent this offseason. And even though he’ll be looking for a team that will make him their starter, it sounds like he’s come to terms with the reality that being a backup quarterback isn’t so bad, either.
During an appearance on the Pat McAfee show on Thursday, Taylor Heinicke revealed that while he obviously would prefer to be a starting quarterback wherever he goes, he understands that being a backup quarterback is “probably one of the best jobs in America.”
"Obviously I wanna be a starter next year but being a backup QB in the NFL is probably one of the best jobs in America"
Taylor Heinicke #PMSinAZ pic.twitter.com/kYLBQ42xph
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) February 9, 2023
“Obviously, I wanna play. I wanna start. But if that opportunity doesn’t come up, you know, being a backup QB in the NFL is probably one of the best jobs in America,” Heinicke told McAfee. “So, either way, I’m just happy to be in the league.”
It’s quite a brutally honest admission from Heinicke – and he’s probably not wrong. In any case, the NFL world had plenty to say about his truthful words.
I love the honesty. And he's right.
— Adam Rank (@adamrank) February 10, 2023
He does have an incredible story and will wind up in a good spot I think because he makes the best out of any situation https://t.co/gwnzm7wUN5
— Chick Hernandez (@MrChickSports) February 10, 2023
Ultimate professional https://t.co/8o5E5RI1Ov
— Justin Walker (@ODUFbATC) February 9, 2023
When the 🐐 talks, we listen. @ODUFootball https://t.co/YWqxpzyXFF
— ODU Monarchists (@ODUMonarchists) February 9, 2023
“Backup QB is the best position in sports. Fact: I get drunk all the time. I don't have to show up to class; and it's just like being a real QB but without all the pain.”
— Alex Moran, Blue Mountain State
I see no lies https://t.co/fhjgxJXF4b
— Colton Steiner™ 🎙️ (@s_colton) February 9, 2023
Heinicke clearly a high IQ guy with that answer https://t.co/twX5WInKGM
— B2B Pac12 Champion Fan (@TheBigSTD) February 9, 2023
Heinicke also made it clear that if he could choose his destination, he would love to join the Green Bay Packers. But it sounds like he’s not going to be too picky when making his decision, he’s just happy to be in the NFL.