Falcons QB Taylor Heinicke explains why he wants to stay in Atlanta

The Falcons ended their three-game preseason slate at home with a 31-0 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. However, preseason wins and losses are not measured on the scoreboard, but by individual moments on the field from players fighting for jobs.

One of those players who was featured heavily in the preseason was veteran quarterback Taylor Heinicke. The 31-year-old could see the writing on the wall regarding his long-term future in Atlanta after the team listed both Kirk Cousins and Michael Penix ahead of him on the depth chart. Heinicke didn’t let that hold him back from saying he wanted to remain in Atlanta.

“I would love to be a part of the Falcons,” Heinicke said following Friday’s loss. “I think this is probably the best roster I’ve been a part of when you look at it from top to bottom. I think Raheem is building something special here. If not, I love the game of football. I just want to keep playing.”

Heinicke complimented the team’s work ethic under Morris throughout training camp, saying it was rough but the players improved.

“I’m sure every guy in that locker room will tell you it was a little rough, but we got better every day, you see it,” said the Atlanta native. “Again, you see a lot of special things during practice and camp, those are the things that make me want to stay here.”

It hasn’t been a great preseason for Henicke, who had a poor performance in the opener before playing slightly better over the next two games. Some believe the Falcons could trade Henicke, but there’s no guarantee he will make the team if not.