Former Commanders fan-favorite QB retires after $19 million NFL career

In his first season with Washington, Heinicke filled in for the injured Alex Smith and went toe-to-toe with NFL legend Tom Brady in the postseason. The 33-year-old finished the Commanders’ NFC Wild Card clash vs. the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with 26 completions for 306 yards, one touchdown, and one interception in Washington’s 31-23 loss.

As a full-time starter in 2021-22, Heinicke finished the year with 3,419 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions on a Washington squad that won seven of their 17 regular-season contests.

Heinicke’s second season with the Commanders was highlighted by his remarkable play in Washington’s highly anticipated rematch vs. Tampa Bay, the then-defending Super Bowl champions, in Week 10.

Heinicke threw for 256 yards, tossed one touchdown, and finished with zero interceptions in the Commanders' 29-19 home victory.

After a shortened 2022-23 campaign (he only appeared in nine games and failed to lead the Commanders to the postseason), Washington moved on from the fearless 6-foot-1 signal-caller. Heinicke subsequently joined the Atlanta Falcons and Los Angeles Chargers before ultimately announcing his retirement from the NFL.

As a well-respected journeyman who went undrafted in 2015, it’s safe to say the Old Dominion product enjoyed a successful career in the big leagues.

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