"Goodbye Easton Stick" "More like new starter": Chargers fans divided over Taylor Heinicke’s new role behind Justin Herbert

The Atlanta Falcons and LA Chargers have reportedly completed a trade to send 10-year veteran Taylor Heinicke to the Los Angeles team. As per NFL insider Dianna Russini, the Falcons are receiving a conditional 6th-round pick in exchange for Heinicke, who joins Justin Herbert in the quarterback room.

This unexpected move surprised many fans, especially those who root for the Chargers. They didn't hesitate to take to social media and speak about this trade, with some casting doubt on it and others being more open to having Heinicke behind Herbert.

"New backup? More like new starter," one fan said.

"Wow Jim Harbaugh sends for you that's a great honor for a QB. Their was some options to choose from," another fan wrote.

"Fantastic move. Goodbye Easton Stick," another fan said.

Other fans said the Falcons won the trade, trying to bring down Heinicke.

"FREE 6TH ROUNDER LETS GO," one fan wrote.

Taylor Heinicke has played 38 games during his 10-year tenure in the league. After signing with the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent in 2015, he's been bouncing around the league, trying to find the right team. He's stepped on the field for the Houston Texans, Carolina Panthers, Washington Commanders, and more recently, the Atlanta Falcons.

Heinicke has attempted 966 passes, completing 604 for 6,635 yards, 39 touchdowns and 28 interceptions. He's been sacked 69 times.

In the 2024 NFL preseason, Heinicke threw 44 passes, completing 20 for 206 yards and zero touchdowns.

Taylor Heinicke joins a revitalized LA Chargers for the 2024 NFL season

After a terrible 2023 season, the LA Chargers made sizable changes to try to challenge for the Vince Lombardi trophy this year. They parted ways with Brandon Staley and appointed Jim Harbaugh, who won the 2024 NCAA national championship with the Michigan Wolverines.

Taylor Heinicke is the latest addition to this team, which already has a star quarterback, Justin Herbert. His experience could be valuable for the 26-year-old, who is keen to bounce back and lead the team to the playoffs.

The front office has put together a list that includes Joe Alt, Joey Bosa, Gus Edwards, J.K. Dobbins, Khalil Mack, Ladd McConkey and Derwin James Jr., among others. With Harbaugh on the sidelines, this team has everything to compete against anybody and become the squad that their fans have been waiting for a long time.