Monarchs fans first saw Heinicke at Collins Hill High School in Lawrenceville, Georgia, where he put up eye-popping numbers as a senior. He threw for 4,218 yards and 44 touchdowns, earning him a path to Old Dominion. At ODU, Heinicke immediately stepped into a prominent role, starting from his first collegiate game and producing standout seasons that helped the program gain national attention as it transitioned to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).
During his time at Old Dominion, Heinicke achieved a landmark milestone by becoming the 18th quarterback in Division I history to crack 10,000 passing yards while also rushing for 1,000 yards in his career. His versatility extended beyond the passing game; he even contributed as a punter at times, showcasing a broad skill set that contributed to the Monarchs’ offensive identity.
Heinicke’s professional journey began when he went undrafted in 2015 and signed with the Minnesota Vikings. Although he did not appear in a regular-season game for Minnesota, his persistence kept him in the NFL conversation. He later spent time with the New England Patriots’ practice squad and made his NFL debut with the Houston Texans in 2017, seeing action on Christmas Day. He sustained a concussion after his first NFL pass attempt, which marked the start of a challenging but persevering career.
The Carolina Panthers claimed Heinicke off waivers in 2018, and he started a late-season game that year. In that debut, he completed 33 of 53 passes for 274 yards, with a touchdown and three interceptions. His NFL path then included stints with the Washington Commanders from 2020 to 2022, where he served as a starter in multiple seasons and posted notable production, including 20 touchdown passes in 2021. He later joined the Atlanta Falcons in 2023 and the Los Angeles Chargers in 2024, where his on-field opportunities varied.
Across his NFL tenure, Heinicke appeared in 42 games, starting 29, and posted a 13-15-1 record as a starter. He completed 62.5% of his passes for 6,663 yards, 39 touchdowns, and 28 interceptions. He also added 608 rushing yards on 114 carries, with three rushing touchdowns, illustrating his dual-threat capabilities that helped define his professional reputation.
Although Heinicke’s current NFL status isn’t tied to a team, his legacy as a college quarterback who left an enduring mark at Old Dominion remains a central part of his football story. The decision to retire his number 14 reflects the program’s recognition of his contributions during a pivotal era for the Monarchs, highlighting the impact he had as a playmaker and a leader on the field.
Old Dominion’s jersey retirement ceremony will place Heinicke among the program’s most celebrated figures. The event will celebrate his achievements, both in high school and college, underscoring the lasting impression he made at ODU before moving on to a professional career in the NFL.
Fans and observers alike will note the significance of this milestone, not only as a tribute to a standout college quarterback but also as a reminder of the pathways that can lead from college stardom to a wide-ranging professional journey. Heinicke’s college career at Old Dominion provides a compelling narrative of consistent production, leadership, and versatility that the program continues to honor with this soon-to-be-retired jersey.
