Chargers Make Decision on Backup Quarterback to Justin Herbert

The Chargers have cut Taylor Heinicke, which means Trey Lance has landed the backup quarterback job in Los Angeles.
The Los Angeles Chargers have cut veteran quarterback Taylor Heinicke.
The Los Angeles Chargers have cut veteran quarterback Taylor Heinicke. / Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
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The Chargers have made their decision on who will backup starting quarterback Justin Herbert.

After cutting D.J. Uiagalelei earlier on Tuesday, the Chargers are also parting ways with veteran quarterback Taylor Heinicke, paving the way for former No. 3 pick to make the roster as Herbert's backup.

Heinicke served as Herbert's backup last season, and appeared in four games during mop up duty. He was set to enter his eighth season in the NFL, most of which have come on 53-man rosters across the league.

The 32-year-old Heinicke should be able to latch on to a practice squad elsewhere (perhaps even back with the Chargers) as a depth option with both starting and backup experience.

As for Lance, he will continue his journey in Los Angeles on his third team in five years having locked down a backup spot.


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Mike McDaniel
MIKE MCDANIEL

Mike McDaniel is a staff writer on the Breaking and Trending News team at Sports Illustrated, where he has worked since January 2022. His work has been featured at InsideTheACC.com, SB Nation, FanSided and more. McDaniel hosts the Hokie Hangover Podcast, covering Virginia Tech athletics, as well as Basketball Conference: The ACC Football Podcast. Outside of work, he is a husband and father, and an avid golfer.