4 potential landing spots for Commanders QB Taylor Heinicke in 2023
By Dean Jones
49ers could sign Taylor Heinicke
The Jimmy Garoppolo era with the San Francisco 49ers is over. This leaves the organization moving forward with Trey Lance and Brock Purdy as their potential starting options in 2023 and beyond.
Purdy is about to undergo serious elbow surgery that could rule him out for months depending on how his rehabilitation goes. Lance also has some injury doubts to overcome, which leaves the Niners facing the prospect of bringing in another veteran capable of filling the void if the worst happens.
Kyle Shanahan’s offensive system is arguably the league’s most quarterback-friendly. Almost everyone that’s been under center has thrived, which played a significant role in Purdy’s emergence from Mr. Irrelevant to a productive starter in 2022.
Of course, it helps that he had the likes of Deebo Samuel and Christian McCaffrey to lean on. But if the Washington Commanders allow Taylor Heinicke to depart for pastures new, San Francisco is a decent landing spot with obvious benefits.
Heinicke’s mobility and ability to get the football out quickly could be of use. Even if that is as a primary backup to Lance until Purdy is cleared to return.
It would be a huge surprise if Henicke didn’t receive offers based on his performance levels last season. Just where they’ll come from has yet to be determined.