NFL Power Rankings, Preseason Week 1: Rookie QBs steal the show

A 7-9 record in 2020 was enough for the Washington Football Team to win the NFC East, but there are higher expectations for them this season. Already boasting a potentially elite defense led by Chase Young, Washington now added Ryan Fitzpatrick as their quarterback following a successful stint in Miami where he was unseated by Tua Tagovailoa.

Fitzpatrick also has a new receiver to work with, as Curtis Samuel joined him in the offseason as a free agent addition from Carolina. In his debut, Fitzpatrick threw just eight passes but completed five for 58 yards, and had two go for more than 20 yards.

That’s where he really stands out since he’s a player who has no problem airing the ball out downfield. It’s gotten him into trouble at times but it’s also led to some incredible runs, including back when he stole the starting job from Jameis Winston in Tampa Bay.

Behind him is Taylor Heinicke, who was nearly a hero for them in the playoffs last season and proved he can hold his own against anyone.

If the offense can continue to move the ball the way they did with Fitzpatrick and Heinicke — and the defense can play as well as they did in 2020 — this could be a team to watch in the NFC East.