New England Patriots quarterback options for the post-Brady era
Clayton Thorson, Northwestern
Projected Selection: Round 1-3
Clayton Thorson does not have great numbers, but he’s been playing with a pretty terrible offense at Northwestern. The offensive line and lack of playmakers have made Thorson look much worse than he actually is. The 6’4″ QB may choose to return to Northwestern though for his senior season in hopes to improve his chances of becoming a first-round pick.
In 2017, Thorson completed 61% of his passes and threw for 15 touchdowns. His sophomore season was better though, as he threw for 22 touchdowns and just 9 interceptions in 13 games. If he decides to enter the 2018 NFL Draft, Clayton Thorson could be a steal for the New England Patriots in the middle rounds.
Luke Falk, Washington State
Projected Selection: Round 3-4
Washington State senior Luke Falk received a ton of attention in 2017, but he didn’t always live up to the hype. Now, he’s viewed as a middle-of-the-pack prospect with a great upside. In 12 games he threw for 3,593 yards with 30 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. Falk will have to become more secure with the ball, as no one wants to see more interceptions than games played, but he has potential.
Falk has an NFL-ready arm, and he can be extremely accurate, but it’s the decision making that needs a lot of improvement. He’ll also need to add some size, as he stands at 6’4″ but only weighs 205 lbs. If the Patriots are on the board in the third or fourth round and Falk is still available, they may swoop in and develop this young, talented QB.
Mason Rudolph, Oklahoma State
Projected Selection: Round 3-4
Projected to go in the same range as Luke Falk, OSU’s Mason Rudolph is a much different player. He’s bigger at 6’5″ 235 lbs, but unlike Falk, he struggles to fit the ball into tight windows.
Rudolph is the type of player that will need a few seasons in the NFL to develop since his receivers in the league won’t be as open as they have been at Oklahoma State. Rudolph is definitely a QB with a lot of work needed to improve, but if New England believes that they can count on Bradt for three more seasons he may be worth the risk.