3 – Taylor Heinicke
Career Statistics – Record: 12-12-1, Completion Percentage: 63.9%, Yards: 5,745, Touchdowns: 34, Interceptions: 24, Rating: 85.7
If there is ever a surefire backup in the NFL who could play well in spurts, it’s Taylor Heinicke. The Arizona Cardinals, if they’re looking for experience, should look long and hard at the man who started 24 games for the Washington Commanders over the last two seasons.
Heinicke is the kind of player who defines the game manager role, and he likely won’t elevate anyone’s talent. But he also won’t hinder it or slow the team down, something we saw far too often from Colt McCoy (sans the game against the L.A. Rams), Trace McSorley, and David Blough.
2 – Jacoby Brissett
Career Statistics – Record: 18-30, Completion Percentage: 61.1%, Yards: 10,350, Touchdowns: 48, Interceptions: 23, Rating: 84.4
Jacoby Brissett is another quarterback the Arizona Cardinals should have their eye on if they’re looking for someone with both experience from a career standpoint, and experience in what Drew Petzing will most likely run. Brissett’s numbers don’t jump off the charts, but he’s also started 10 or more games in three of his seven seasons.
He may be a career journeyman best suited for a backup role, but it’s clear that numerous coaches have put their trust in Brissett if they need someone to carry the team for a significant portion of the season. And since he knows Petzing, don’t be surprised if the Cardinals snag the veteran with Kyler Murray on the mend.