Former Chargers QB Retires After LA Released Him in 2024

Former Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Taylor Heinicke announced his retirement from the NFL on social media on Thursday. Heinicke has not played in an NFL game since August 2024 with the Chargers.

Heinicke joined the Chargers through a trade with the Atlanta Falcons. Four games into the 2024 season, the Chargers released Heinicke in August, and he went unsigned for the remainder of the season. Prior to getting released, Heinicke completed three of five passes for 28 yards.

Aug 16, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Taylor Heinicke (4) throws the ball against the Los Angeles Rams in the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Chargers re-signed Heinicke to a one-year deal last offseason. However, Trey Lance ultimately won the backup quarterback spot in training camp, and Heinicke was released again in August 2025.

In his retirement announcement, Heinicke acknowledged the obstacles he faced during his career but said he is grateful to have been able to play in the NFL.

“For 25 years, I had the pleasure to play this great sport of football… It has taught me a lot, not only about myself, but about life as well,” Heinicke wrote on social media. “Many ups and downs throughout the years, but the ups outweigh the downs tenfold. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would’ve been able to live this life.

“Thank you to all who have supported me in this journey. Thank you all who have believed in me. And thank you to those who gave me the opportunity to live out my childhood dream.”