Washington Football Team starting quarterback Taylor Heinicke has cleared COVID-19 protocols and will return to practice Thursday, a source confirmed to ESPN.
Heinicke and backup Kyle Allen were placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list and were among the 13 players and seven assistant coaches who missed Tuesday’s 27-17 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Garrett Gilbert, who was signed off New England’s practice squad Friday, was the starting quarterback against the Eagles.
Washington, who also has 15 players on injured reserve, visits the Cowboys on Sunday, followed by a home rematch against the Eagles and a road game at the Giants. At 6-8, Washington would need to win its final three games and receive help to make the playoffs.
Heinicke had started every game since Week 1 starter Ryan Fitzpatrick was injured in the second quarter of the season opener. In 12 starts, Heinicke has thrown for 2,931 yards and 19 touchdowns with 12 interceptions. His Total QBR of 46.2 ranks 22nd among NFL quarterbacks.
The Washington Post was first to report Heinicke’s return from protocols.
