Saturday was a tough day for Washington Commanders quarterback Taylor Heinicke. Down 21-14 in the fourth quarter, Heinicke was sacked and fumbled in the process, giving the 49ers terrific field position.
Washington’s defense held San Francisco to a field goal, making it 24-14. On the second play of the next drive, Heinicke, under pressure, is intercepted, leading to another field goal, and the Niners went up 27-14.
Then, head coach Ron Rivera benched Heinicke. Just like that, it seemed like Heinicke’s tenure was over. Carson Wentz, who hasn’t played since Week 6 due to injury, was back.
While Heinicke was visibly frustrated on the sideline, he was the first person to congratulate Wentz when he threw a touchdown pass on his first drive. Just as Heinicke stated last week, if the Commanders chose to return to Wentz, Heinicke would approach each game by being the “best backup” he could be.
While Rivera has yet to name a starter for Week 16, the presumption is he’ll return to Wentz.
After the loss to the 49ers, Heinicke spoke to the media during what was a difficult time for him.
“I felt like we were playing good for three-and-a-half quarters,” Heinicke said. “Starting the fourth, obviously, that’s not how you want to start the fourth quarter, but they made the decision to put Carson in. I thought he did a great job and moved the ball well. That was pretty cool that it was his first game in a while now, and in his first drive, he goes down and scores a touchdown. He was ready for his moment, and I thought he did a good job.”
Heinicke is a professional. And in how he handles his role is one of the many reasons he’s beloved by his teammates.
Heinicke was then asked how hard it would be, not knowing his status for next week.
“It’s tough,” Heinicke said. “I’ve said this before, I try not to look at it. I just try to roll with the punches. If I’m starting, I’ll give it my all. If I’m not, I’m trying to be the best backup I can be. I’m going to continue to do that. Let’s see what happens next week.”
Rivera often talks about the culture. Heinicke and Wentz both represent a positive culture, always supporting one another, even enjoying the holidays together.
It remains to be seen which way Rivera will lean for next week against Cleveland, but odds are he’ll give Wentz one more chance.
If so, Heinicke will do everything in his power to help Wentz and the team prepare.
