Evaluating Patriots QB options for 2021 (and beyond)
Bill Belichick and the Patriots have a decision at quarterback this offseason with many options.
The New England Patriots had to deal with life after Tom Brady in the 2020 season, using Cam Newton to try and be the guy to fill at quarterback.
That, of course, didn’t go too great and they finished 7-9 while Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers went on to win the Super Bowl.
More from Chowder and Champions
- 3 Patriots on the Bubble Who Have Clinched Their 53-Man Roster Spots
- 3 Midseason Chaim Bloom Decisions That Have Killed the 2023 Red Sox
- 10 Patriots Who Will Be Cut by Tuesday’s Roster Deadline
- MLB Screws Red Sox Fans With Broadcast for Mookie Betts Return
- 3 Most Underpaid Celtics Heading Into the 2023 Season
As they head into the offseason, the only quarterback the Patriots have signed to the roster is Jarrett Stidham. After this past season, it seems as though Stidham will not be the answer moving forward.
That means it is time for the Patriots to look elsewhere. The Patriots are expected to have around $60 million in cap space for the upcoming season, giving them more money to spend than they have had in years.
Whether it be through free agency, trade, or the draft, there’s a real opportunity to not only find a quarterback for 2021 but beyond that.
New England Patriots Free Agency Options
Dak Prescott
There’s little chance that Dak Prescott ever hits the free agent market this offseason as the Dallas Cowboys have been pretty open on wanting to re-sign their franchise quarterback.
The only question really is following his major injury during the season, could the Cowboys consider moving on from Prescott? Never know. If he does become available in some unforeseen situation, the Patriots would be at the top of the list.
Ryan Fitzpatrick
It would be crazy to not consider Fitzpatrick, right? He has been here, there, and everywhere in the NFL.
If he was to join the Patriots, he would not only complete his AFC East bingo card but would also be an ideal option as a backup or bridge option if the Patriots wanted to draft a rookie quarterback and hold them out.
There has to be a serious consideration for “FitzMagic” this offseason.
Jameis Winston
Jameis Winston took a year off at pursuing a starting role to be the backup quarterback to Drew Brees. However, when Brees was injured, he did not receive an opportunity to start.
Instead, it was Taysom Hill who got the opportunity. Winston did show up in the playoffs though, hitting a 56-yard touchdown pass to Tre’Quan Smith.
The quarterback has everything it takes to start in the league and could be a better choice for Bill Belichick if he wants to try and save the career of Winston. There’s real potential here.
Mitchell Trubisky
Former No. 2 overall pick Mitchell Trubisky showed some signs last year that could lead to the Chicago Bears retaining him after all, but many expect for the quarterback to enter free agency and the Patriots seem to be a perfect spot.
The contract shouldn’t be expected to be huge and could very well be a one year deal for him to try and prove his work.
While many fans around the league probably worry about the idea of having him play quarterback for the team, Patriots fans should welcome it as he could develop under Belichick and company.
Jacoby Brissett
Hello, old friend. Jacoby Brissett is at the top of anyone’s list when it comes to potential Patriots quarterbacks this season due to the familiarity. He won’t be expensive by any means and could be another bridge option to pair with a rookie quarterback. The Indianapolis Colts will likely try and bring him back due to Philip Rivers retiring, so that’s worth noting here.
Cam Newton
And finally, the possible return. Belichick filled Newton with compliments throughout the season and there’s always a chance he could bring him back as a bridge option. Of course, this is what many fans will hope against but it’s very possible that it does happen. So be prepared.