Chargers acquire Taylor Heinicke from Falcons, address concerns about backup quarterbacks

Alex Parker

u/alex

Chargers acquire Taylor Heinicke and Elijah Molden in trades to strengthen their quarterback depth and pass defense.

Why it matters: The move reflects the Chargers' concern about their backup quarterback situation and their desire to bolster their pass defense after struggling last season.

What's new: The Chargers have traded for quarterback Taylor Heinicke from the Atlanta Falcons in exchange for a conditional sixth-round pick. They have also acquired cornerback Elijah Molden from the Tennessee Titans for a seventh-round pick.

Yes, but: The acquisition of Heinicke doesn't guarantee a solution to the backup quarterback issue, as he will need to prove himself in the Chargers' system.

What to watch: Keep an eye on how Heinicke performs in his role as the backup quarterback and if he can provide reliable support to Justin Herbert.

What's next: The Chargers will continue to evaluate their roster and explore potential additions or adjustments to further strengthen their team.

The Chargers' concerns about their backup quarterbacks were evident during training camp and preseason.

  • Easton Stick, who performed well in relief of Herbert last season, did not impress in the recent practices and games.
  • This prompted the team to seek an alternative option to ensure they have a capable replacement for Herbert if needed.

Heinicke brings experience and starting-level skills to the Chargers' quarterback room.

  • With 29 career starts, including being a full-time starter for the Commanders last season, he has shown he can handle the responsibilities of leading an offense.
  • His performance in 2021, throwing for over 3,400 yards and 20 touchdowns, demonstrates his ability to produce on the field.

The addition of Elijah Molden addresses the Chargers' pass defense woes.

  • Molden started 16 of 33 regular-season games with the Titans and has shown playmaking ability with two pick-sixes and two forced fumbles.
  • The Chargers allowed an average of 249.8 passing yards per game last season, and Molden's presence should help improve their secondary.

Coach Jim Harbaugh's statement highlights the team's dissatisfaction with the backup quarterback situation.

  • This indicates the importance the Chargers place on having a reliable backup who can step in seamlessly if Herbert were to be injured.

The bottom line: By acquiring Taylor Heinicke and Elijah Molden, the Chargers are addressing key areas of concern and bolstering their roster for the upcoming season.