Saturday night’s matchup between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Washington Football Team could turn into a true David versus Goliath showdown.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, “there is a real possibility” Washington backup quarterback Taylor Heinicke starts against the Buccaneers.
J.P. Finlay of NBC Sports Washington reported Friday that Alex Smith’s calf injury hasn’t responded, leaving his game status in question.
Smith is 5-1 as Washington’s starter this season after returning from a life-threatening leg injury. During the team’s season finale against the Philadelphia Eagles, the veteran quarterback appeared to be more limited than usual.
Heinicke took a majority of first-team practice reps this week while Smith rested his calf. The 27-year-old replaced Dwayne Haskins during Week 16 against the Carolina Panthers, completing 12 of 19 passes for 137 yards and one touchdown while also rushing for 22 yards in a 20-13 loss.