Way-too-early 2021 NFL Power Rankings: Rams, Packers, Chiefs chasing Buccaneers

The legend of Taylor Heinicke is one that will be told for years to come. The unknown quarterback took over for a team with no name when the 7-9 Washington Football Team hosted the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFC Wild Card Game. For Tampa Bay, this proved to be a much tougher game than expected as Heinicke gave them all they could handle.

The former undrafted signal-caller from Old Dominion joined Washington since he had some familiarity with head coach Ron Rivera. Then when Alex Smith was unable to go in the playoffs. Heinicke subbed in and had 306 yards passing with a touchdown and a pick.

Washington lost by eight but they gained a lot of respect around the sporting world for the grit they showed. And with that being said, they should be the favorites to repeat in the NFC East, right?

Well, not exactly. Washington won the division by default as the entire East was a dumpster fire. They even nearly lost to the Eagles in Week 17 which would have allowed the Giants into the postseason with a 6-10 mark. Washington is a team that will overachieve due to their heart and determination but there are a lot of holes on that offense still.