It’s been a hell of a few weeks for Ryan Fitzpatrick. Several weeks ago, it was reported that he was considering retirement. Fitzpatrick quelled those rumors and eventually signed with the Washington Football Team. Today, Ron Rivera announced that Fitzpatrick would enter training camp as the number one quarterback but noted that there would be a competition.

2021 will be Fitzpatrick’s 17th season in the league, and Washington will be his ninth different team. Fitzpatrick started last season under center for the Miami Dolphins but was surpassed by Tua Tagovailoa part-way through the season. Fitzmagic was productive as a Dolphin, throwing for an average of 234.2 yards per game to go along with 33 touchdowns and 21 interceptions in 24 games.

Washington’s defense was among the league’s best last season. They finished second in total defense at 304.6 yards per game and fourth in points allowed at 20.6 per game. Their defense was enough to help them capture their third division crown since 2012, but you have to wonder how high their ceiling could have been with even an average quarterback leading the charge from start to finish.

Taylor Heinicke won over Washington Football Team fans during their Wild Card game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He won’t let Fitzpatrick walk away with the job without a healthy competition. Keep your eyes on Washington Football Team activities as we progress towards OTAs.

FanDuel Sportsbook has Washington listed at +280 to win the NFC East and +5000 to win the Super Bowl.