Whilst we’re still a ways from free agency and the Draft, there’s still plenty of movement in the NFL and with specific Patriots interest. Let’s dive into the current QB market for the Pats and five players who sparked in yesterday’s Senior Bowl.
QB Situation
I woke up this morning to the news that Detroit had traded Matthew Stafford to the LA Rams in return for Jared Goff, two first-round picks for 2022 & 2023, and a third-rounder for 2021.
I knew a trade was set to be finalized before the Super Bowl as reports suggested, but I can’t believe how much LA gave up just to dump Goff’s cap and get rid of him. Detroit has Goff under contract now until 2024 along with an extra pick this year and two future first-rounders.
The interesting point of this for the Patriots is that Stafford is now off the board as one of the more realistic options to fill the QB void in New England.
So, what options do they have?
Jimmy Garoppolo
Originally, the 49ers were hot favorites to acquire Stafford’s services from Detroit before the Rams deal came about, so, the impression was that Garoppolo would be dealt or released if they were able to get Stafford through the door.
With that plan out the window, the 49ers are left with Jimmy G and can still look at options to start fresh. I’m inclined to agree with the overall thought that he remains the most realistic option for the Patriots, so don’t be surprised if he could land back in New England before the Draft.
Sam Darnold
Jets sit with the second overall pick in this year’s Draft and are heavily reported as the front runners for a blockbuster trade for Deshaun Watson if Houston decides to deal him. Even if New York gets Watson, Darnold might not be part of the trade and could still be available. Patriots could be in with a chance to acquire Darnold without losing a first-rounder which is something I’m open to.
Deshaun Watson
Watson wants to be traded, Houston has no intention of trading him. Now, I’m all for drama, but this could get messy and drag out until the start of next season. Frankly, I feel the Pats are outsiders on having a chance to get Watson. Would I do it? In a minute, I’d gladly give up this year’s entire draft to secure a proven top-five QB, but I just can’t see it happening.
Matt Ryan
Ryan’s future in Atlanta has stayed pretty quiet among all of the Stafford/Watson hype, but, the thought is that he’s also another QB whose time could be ending soon with their current team. That being said, even if the Falcons draft a QB, they could hang on to Ryan for another year so don’t expect him as the best option for New England.
Carson Wentz
Before Peterson was fired, I would have put Wentz up there as a possible option for the Pats to look to bring in. But, with the new front office in Philly, Wentz may still have a chance to resurrect his career.
Dak Prescott
Prescott’s time in Dallas seems to be over after his horrific season-ending injury this year. He’s for sure a viable option for the team, but I feel other suitors willing to pay him top money will be ahead of the Pats.
First Round Mock Draft Check-In
PFF – Steve Palazzolo – Pick 15 – WR Devonta Smith – Alabama
While quarterback is an offseason priority in New England, adding playmakers is right there at the top of the list. Smith is coming off perhaps the best college wide receiver season of all time; he’s an outstanding route-runner with after-the-catch and ball skills to win with any style. The Patriots may be in a tough spot to find their quarterback in the middle of the first, but adding Smith and his 94.9 PFF grade will make the future New England signal-caller quite happy.
ESPN – Mel Kiper – Pick 15 – QB Mac Jones – Alabama
Like McShay, I’m thinking quarterback for the Patriots. They don’t pick this high often. Why not go and get your guy and build around him? Now, that changes if Bill Belichick & Co. can make a deal to get a veteran quarterback on the trade market or if Jimmy Garoppolo gets cut by the 49ers. But with Cam Newton unlikely to return to New England, Jones could become a signal-caller to groom for offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. Jones can make every throw at every level of the field, and he’s extremely accurate. Plus, we know that Belichick has drafted plenty of Alabama stars and trusts Nick Saban. Jones will be at the Senior Bowl this week, and I’m expecting him to impress. And yes, if you’re keeping count, this makes five quarterbacks in the top 15 picks.
NBC – Glynn Morgan – Pick 15 – LB Zaven Collins – Tulsa
Whether or not New England keeps this draft pick is anybody’s guess. Recently, quarterback Matt Stafford of the Lions became available via any significant trade offers; and Rams’ general manager, Les Snead gave the worst endorsement of a player (in this case, quarterback Jared Goff) in recorded history. So, if head coach, Bill Belichick believes this current roster of Patriots has a run, or two left in them to challenge for a Super Bowl, trading for an established signal caller might be the direction New England takes. If not, then drafting the multifaceted Zaven Collins would provide Belichick with a future defensive star.
5 Sparks From The Senior Bowl
Dez Fitzpatrick – WR – Louisville
Fitzpatrick impressed yesterday as the leading receiver for the National Team. Following on from a good week of practice, the 23-year-old WR out of Louisville hauled in 6/11 for 90 yards on the way to earning the offensive player of the game. – Originally thought of as a day three option, his performance may have helped his stock out.
I’ll be doing more scouting and mock drafts in the coming weeks, but I really like the look of Fitz.
Elerson Smith – OLB – Northern Iowa
From a small school, but Smith put in a big performance showing off his sheer size advantage in yesterday’s game. Standing at 6-foot-6, 262 pounds, he’s a big guy and showed the ability to make plays at the line and downfield.
Ben Mason – FB – Michigan
From looking at which of the notable players could fit well into the Patriots’ style of play, Ben Mason is one of those that you can’t help thinking Bill would fall in love with. The dude is a beast – see Twitter video for exhibit A..
In practice earlier this week, he showed ability as a pass-catcher which was another impressive thing to see, especially from a traditional fullback. Jeff Howe noted that he thought Mason would be a legitimate option to bring in to compete against Jakob Johnson in camp, let’s see.
Amari Rodgers – WR – Clemson
Rodgers had an impressive week all in all and capped it off with a nice touchdown grab in yesterday’s game. Showed the ability to play in the slot and outside as well as taking his touchdown pass and 2pt conversion well. He’ll turn 22 at the start of his rookie season, could be one to watch.
Keith Taylor – CB – Washington
The 6-foot-2 cornerback impressed in yesterday’s game following a fairly quiet week for him on the practice field. He looked dominant when in man-coverage and was in good positions on a number of his plays yesterday. Whilst the Patriots’ need at CB isn’t a top priority, Taylor stood out and would be an interesting addition to the Pats DB core.
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